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From a tour of the entire stadium to experiencing the electrifying atmosphere of a derby match, this place gave me the feeling that the 2026 World Cup was just around the corner…
A journey to explore the "behind-the-scenes" world of the football stadium.
I arrived at Toyota Stadium on a mild, sunny morning, when the atmosphere was still quite peaceful. Contrary to my preconceived notions of a stadium only truly "buzzing" on match days, this place offered me a completely different experience: a journey of discovery behind the stadium lights.
I participated in a 45-minute VIP private tour, a highly personalized, small-group tour. It wasn't just a simple "visit to see the stadium," but more like a journey into the "behind-the-scenes" world of a professional sports business ecosystem.
The two teams came onto the field to prepare to greet the audience.
Our first stop was the "National Soccer Hall of Fame," a place that honors the historical figures and landmarks of American soccer. Interactive screens, historical images, memorabilia, and stories about American soccer legends from Pele to Messi, from Alexi Lallas with his unique beard 32 years ago to the times the US women's national team won the World Cup… All of this made me realize that soccer in this country is not as "young" as many people think, but is developing with a very unique, very American identity!
My next stop was the Gallagher Club, a high-end, open-plan lounge. From there, I could see the entire stadium. This vantage point helped me better understand how the stadium's architecture was designed to optimize the audience experience, with every seat facing the center, creating a sense of closeness to the game.
The National Soccer Hall of Fame is a place that honors the historical figures and achievements of American soccer. (Photo: FC Dallas)
One of the most memorable moments was stepping into the locker room on match day. The space wasn't overly elaborate, but every detail served to enhance the players' concentration. Each position was clearly arranged, the lighting just right, creating a sense of anticipation before the game. Standing in this room, I could imagine the tense atmosphere before the match began or during halftime.
The journey continues to the post-match press conference room, where coaches and players share their thoughts with the media. This space evokes a familiar feeling from press conferences I've seen on TV, but being there in person feels much more authentic.
The highest section of the press stands, with its elevated viewpoint, offers a completely different experience. From here, the pitch is no longer a collection of disjointed plays but a comprehensive tactical picture. I understand why this is the position reserved for journalists and commentators, allowing them to "read the game" holistically, and why, somewhere in the world, coaches have secretly climbed up to this area to adjust tactics during a match.
The tour concluded with the experience of preparing to enter the stadium. As I stepped onto the grass, I almost forgot I was a tourist. I was only a few steps away from the pitch. The green grass, the clearly defined boundary lines, the goalposts right before my eyes – all created a very "real" feeling that reminded me of my unfulfilled childhood dream of becoming a professional football player.
The entire trip was more than just a tour; it was an experience that helped me better understand how stadium management operates, connecting history and facilities to the fan experience. This is a must-try tour for anyone wanting to explore American soccer from a deeper perspective, even if they aren't passionate about the sport.
Texas Derby – When the game becomes a festival
My opportunity became even more special when I received an invitation from Raul Hernandez, the head of communications for FC Dallas, to cover the Texas derby between FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo.
From the moment I arrived at the stadium area, I could feel a distinct difference compared to the previous tour. The quiet atmosphere had been replaced by a vibrant, bustling energy as fans gathered in large numbers at the fan zones and sports shopping areas, participating in entertainment activities, enjoying food, and having a few beers before kick-off.
As someone with a press pass, I had the opportunity to approach the match from a more unique perspective. Instead of simply being a spectator, I got to observe how a major sporting event is organized and run. From the elevated press area to the backstage spaces, from watching the game from the corner flag during the first half to immersing myself in the home team's fan zone during the second half – everything was professionally prepared, synchronized, and of course, safety was always the top priority.
The entire Toyota Stadtum stadium, as seen from the vantage point of a fan from the home team's supporters' club. Photo: FC Dallas
When the match started, the Toyota stadium truly "woke up" with the deafening explosions from the fireworks display, which made me faint for a few seconds because I didn't know about it and "dared" to stand near the firing area. The stands were filled with the colors of both teams. The cheers were incessant, interspersed with drums and fan songs, or the sounds of various brass bands playing cheerful tunes that had nothing to do with cheering for football.
The Texas derby is more than just an ordinary game. It's a symbolic clash between two major cities in Texas: FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo. The El Capitán trophy, the symbolic cup awarded to the winning team, has become a symbol of pride and rivalry, much like other famous derby matches between rival teams around the world. Furthermore, the Texas derby reflects the strong growth of soccer in the state, as both Dallas and Houston are set to host the 2026 World Cup. Experiences like this demonstrate the serious investment and long-term vision of American soccer.
The experience of standing and cheering alongside the home team's supporters was truly exciting.
From my rare vantage point, I could clearly observe every play, every reaction from the players and the spectators. Each dangerous situation made the entire stadium hold its breath, and each goal erupted like a whirlwind of emotion that spread throughout the stands.
What impressed me wasn't just the match itself, but also how football was "presented" as part of the culture, the culmination of sport and entertainment. From the music and lighting effects to the interaction with the audience every minute, every element contributed to making this fiery derby a truly unforgettable experience…
