The Daily Dirt, September 15: Fishin’ in the Dark

During last night’s ATLSoccer chat, we discussed the upcoming expansion draft, the ways Atlanta United can build their roster, and the upcoming U.S. Women’s National Team game in Atlanta on Sunday. Check it out:

Later this morning, we’ll have the latest in our Expansion Draft Wish List series where Rob and I take a look at the Columbus Crew’s roster. Also, I’ll have a piece later digging deeper into the various player acquisition methods Atlanta United will have at their disposal as they build their first roster.

FC Dallas, your newly minted U.S. Open Cup champs and leaders in the Supporters’ Shield race, are reportedly bringing back Guatemalan legend Carlos Ruiz today ahead of the MLS roster freeze. He has last played for Municipal in Guatemala and scored over 40 goals in just over 80 games in the last few years. As a starter in MLS, Ruiz is past it. As a late game substitute, he just might be the missing piece to put Dallas over the top.

Domestic

Portland loses on the road in CONCACAF Champions League play to Saprissa (Stumptown Footy)

Carlos Ruiz to Dallas? (Big D Soccer)

Clint Dempsey making a return to the Sounders (Sounder at Heart)

Tonight’s game in CONCACAF Champions League between New York Red Bulls and Alianza will decide who advances, Antigua reportedly will be suspended (El Grafico)

USWNT vs. Thailand preview (Stars and Stripes FC)

Miami FC defeats Carolina in NASL action (WRAL Sportsfan)

International

Is Benito Floro to blame for Canada’s failures? (MLS)

AC Milan buyer trying to round up necessary funding (Bloomberg)

A 40 team World Cup could be headed our way in 2026 (FOX Sports)

Local

NCAA contacts Kennesaw State about hosting the D1 Women’s Soccer Championships after pulling the event from North Carolina (AJC)

North Georgia defeats Emmanuel College 5-4 (GoECLions)