Dynamo 2sday: Dos Take Down Austin FC II, Stay Top of the West
(image via Houston Dynamo FC)
Houston Dynamo 2 continued their strong start to the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over in-state rivals Austin FC II on Sunday night, solidifying their position atop the Western Conference just seven games into the season. The win finished Houston’s weekend sweep of Austin after the first team won 2-0 on Saturday.
The victory was sparked by a standout performance from 20-year-old winger Exon Arzu, who has quickly emerged as a key attacking force for Marcelo Santos' side. Arzu opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a header from close range after a scramble in the box was whipped back in front by Felipe Andrade. Arzu’s speed and technical ability have made him one of the league’s most promising young players. Having already matched his 2024 goal tally (3) in half as many games, Arzu’s return to form has been a major boost for a Dynamo 2 side with championship aspirations.
Dos doubled the lead in the 77th minute when Academy product Enrique Correa took advantage of an Austin error while Houston pressed. He finished into the bottom corner for a 2-0 lead. The aggressive pressing philosophy under new head coach Marcelo Santos has been a marked shift from the club’s previous patient build-up play. While it may not show in traditional stat sheets—aside from leading the league in yellow cards (22)—it’s translating into results.
Austin FC II responded with a goal of their own from the penalty spot in second half stoppage time, but Houston’s high-pressing style caused problems all night in order to secure the three points. With the win, Houston Dynamo 2 assert themselves as early contenders in the Western Conference. The match not only highlighted their improved mentality and tactical evolution, but also the emergence of young stars like Arzu who are capable of delivering in high-stakes moments.
As the summer heat looms, Dynamo 2 look ready to keep grinding out results—gritty, urgent, and full of fight.