Friday Links: Gold final set between the US and Mexico

And yet again, we get another US-Mexico Gold Cup final.

The week is nearly done and in the books here as we head into a busy MLS weekend that sees FC Dallas go back out on the road. We’ll be diving into game coverage later today but first, we have some links to discuss this morning.

// FC Dallas //

SET THE STAGE: FC Dallas vs. Sporting KC | 7.31.21 | FC Dallas
SKC has always been a tough place to pick up points in, yet FC Dallas was able to do so last season. Maybe the road winless streak stops here?

// MLS //

At long last, Driussi signing signals that Austin FC came to play | The Striker Texas
It sounds like Austin isn’t messing around with this signing.

Sebastian Driussi: Austin FC’s missing piece? | MLSSoccer.com
Austin has lacked that power punch up top and maybe Driussi is the guy to take them where they need to go here.

MLS Canadian clubs to host all remaining 2021 home matches in Canada | MLSSoccer.com
So that Vancouver game later this season will be in Vancouver after all. Which is good if you ask me. Also good, seeing that 96% of players and club staff (those working closely with the team) are vaccinated at this point.

San Jose Earthquakes offer next general manager a blank canvas – The Athletic
As the Earthquakes search for their next general manager, creating a clearly defined path to success is the club’s top priority.

Sounders seem to have turned sights away from Wesley – Sounder At Heart
In the transfer market, you always have Plan A, B, C, D…and probably all the way down to Z.

Timbers officially acquire Santiago Moreno from América de Cali – Stumptown Footy
After much speculation, the Portland Timbers have officially acquired Colombian midfielder Santiago Moreno.

How much longer are Chicago Fire fans supposed to be patient? – Hot Time In Old Town
I think FC Dallas fans have been asking themselves this question as well this year.

// USMNT //

Three takeaways from a delightfully weird USMNT Gold Cup semifinal win in Austin | MLSSoccer.com
We knew that the US could pull this one out against Qatar. But just like where it was hosted, it was a weird game. I also think we’re going to see more USMNT games in Austin too.

2021 Gold Cup Semi-Final: USA 1-0 Qatar – it’s fine, this whole thing is being taken too seriously – Stars and Stripes FC
Another trip to the Gold Cup final is on top for the US (and Mexico). I guess we’ll all get excited for it.