You will see a slew new faces playing for FC Dallas this season. Anton Nedyalkov and Reto Ziegler join the likes of Jesse Gonzalez, Kellyn Acosta and Matt Hedges as the team begins preparation for the 2018 MLS season which opens at home against Real Salt Lake on March 3. The goal this 2018, as it is every year, is winning the MLS Cup.

You will also see another new face competing for FC Dallas. This yet-to-be-named-player’s goal? Being crowned the FIFA 18 eWorld Cup World Champion. Yep, FC Dallas and Major League Soccer are getting in the gaming game.

MLS announced on Friday the creation of eMLS, a new competitive EA Sports FIFA 18 league that pits the best gamers from across North America who represent MLS clubs. eMLS will debut at PAX East, the super-popular gaming festival April 5-8 in Boston. The winner of the of the eMLS Cup, will represent Major League Soccer in the EA Sports FIFA Global 18 Playoff Series in August.

Nineteen of MLS’ 23 teams, including FC Dallas, will participate in eMLS. Why? Let’s be honest, competitive gaming plays a huge role in soccer culture and is a key driver in increasing interesting the sport in North America. Heck, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott told me that playing FIFA is what got him interested in soccer.

How eMLS Cup Works

Each participating MLS Club will compete in eMLS Cup, MLS’s elite competitive gaming program. Initial tournament rounds will lead into the playoffs and one competitor will be named eMLS Cup Champion. The winner and runner-up will receive automatic berths into the EA SPORTS FIFA 18 Global Series Playoffs, with a chance to play in the FIFA eWorld Cup.