When the MLS Cup Playoff bracket was released, FC Dallas knew they had a tough task in front of them when they drew the Seattle Sounders in Round One.

Going to Seattle has never been an easy trip for FC Dallas over the years, with only one victory at Lumen Field dating all the way back to 2011 (FCD has a 1-14-6 all-time record in Seattle). With a Best-of-Three series against the Sounders, it meant FC Dallas would have to find a way to pick up a rare win in Seattle in order to advance back to the MLS Western Conference semifinals for a second year in a row.

FC Dallas will have to find ways to capitalize on their chances and defend well if they want to extend their season. Here are some keys to Friday’s game that we see playing a big factor for FC Dallas.