MLS announced that it has postponed the match between FC Dallas and the Vancouver Whitecaps at the MLS is Back Tournament until a later, undisclosed date.
– Stream MLS is Back LIVE on ESPN networks and the ESPN App (U.S. only)
Dallas has been hit hard by a series of positive tests for COVID-19. FCD arrived in the Orlando area on June 27, and earlier this week it was confirmed that 10 members of its delegation — nine players and one coach — tested positive for COVID-19.
The team has been under quarantine since then, preventing them from training. The Dallas-based outlet 3rdDegree.net reported late on Friday night that a 10th player — and 11th person in the delegation overall — also has tested positive, reducing the number of non-infected players to 18.
Vancouver was originally scheduled to arrive Wednesday, but the team’s departure was delayed because of two inconclusive tests for COVID-19 during pre-travel screening. The subsequent test results were confirmed to be negative and the club will depart for Orlando on Monday.
The match was originally scheduled for July 9 but MLS said in a statement: “The later match date will allow both teams additional training days in Orlando in advance of their first match.”
Both teams will now play their first matches of the MLS is Back Tournament on July 15, as FC Dallas face Seattle Sounders FC at 9 a.m. ET (ESPN, ESPN Deportes, TSN) and Vancouver Whitecaps FC face the San Jose Earthquakes at 10:30 p.m. ET (TUDN, TSN).