Dynamo FC vs Galaxy Recap: Postseason Prep
Written by: Thomas Graham, SFL Writer
On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Houston Dynamo defeated the LA Galaxy 2-1 at Shell Energy Stadium, extending their winning streak in the latter stretch of the MLS regular season. While the Galaxy are still having trouble finding their footing in the very competitive Western Conference, the victory boosts Dynamo's chances of making the playoffs.
The match opened off with Dynamo establishing dominance of possession. Under Héctor Herrera's direction, Houston's midfield moved the ball across the field with ease. The secret to Dynamo's rhythm was Herrera's vision and expertise, which regularly opened gaps in the Galaxy defense. With winger Corey Baird and striker Amine Bassi posing a threat to the Galaxy defense, Houston's attack was in a promising position early on.
After a set piece from captain Héctor Herrera glanced off defender Erik Sviatchenko's and was deflected into the path of the Argentine striker by Steres, forward Ezequiel Ponce opened the score in the 44th minute. Ponce scored his sixth goal of the regular season with the play.
Riqui Puig led LA Galaxy's play from midfield as they attempted to rally after going behind early. Although Puig's creativity was visible, the Galaxy struggled to create any clear opportunities due to Houston's defensive alignment, which was anchored by Teenage Hadebe and Ethan Bartlow's strong connection. Galaxy strikers Dejan Joveljić and Douglas Costa found breaking through the Dynamo's well-organized wall difficult, and Houston's defense stayed compact.
On the other hand, the Houston Dynamo never took it easy. They continued to press high and attack, and Herrera was crucial in establishing the tempo once more. In the 66th minute, Houston took the lead once more following a quick substitution. When Corey Baird fired a crisp cross into the box, Ibrahim Aliyu had moved to the near post with skill. Aliyu's header beat Galaxy goalie Jonathan Bond, restoring Houston's lead at 2-1.
In the 37th minute, Carrasquilla created his own space on the edge of the box and attempted another goal, but McCarthy made a diving stop to keep the ball out of danger. After playing against the United States and Canada, the Panamanian international just got back from overseas action.
LA Galaxy had a final opportunity to tie the score in the closing seconds of the game. In the 89th minute, Joveljić's head was on a corner kick, but his attempt went over the crossbar. Their displeasure was clear as the Galaxy battled to defeat a well-organized Dynamo side. By using substitutes to slow down the game and make sure they left the field with all three points, the Houston team effectively controlled the clock.
Controlling the game's pace and making crucial passes that gave his teammates chances, Héctor Herrera once again demonstrated his leadership and skill in midfield for Dynamo. Along with his assist on the first goal, Artur's defensive effort made him an exceptional player.
Puig served as LA Galaxy's creative spark, and Costa's objective was a flash of personal vision. But ultimately, the Galaxy lost out because they were unable to take advantage of other opportunities and make the crucial discovery.
Houston will need to capitalize on this momentum as they continue their excellent late-season play, and their next game will be critical to their pursuit for postseason status.
Post a Comment