Houston Dynamo Look to Finish First Half Strong Against LA Galaxy
(image via Ricky Vega)
The Houston Dynamo wrap up the first half of the season tonight against the LA Galaxy before taking a two-month break for the FIFA World Cup. Houston is coming off a loss in penalty kicks on Tuesday that eliminated them from the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The Galaxy last played last Saturday, picking up and impressive 2-0 win in Seattle.
When: Saturday, May 23 | 9:40 PM CT kickoff
Where: Dignity Health Sports Park; Carson, California
TV/Stream: Apple TV
Finish Strong
After the 6-2 loss in Colorado, the Dynamo were embarrassed and looking for answers. Since then, Houston has won five of its last seven league matches, the team’s best run since 2019. Now with one match left before taking some time off, the Dynamo could jump as high as fourth in the Western Conference with a win. After the disappointment of Tuesday’s elimination from the Open Cup, this is a perfect opportunity for the Dynamo to bounce back and enjoy the World Cup on a high.
Road Concessions
The Dynamo have just one clean sheet on the road this season, the 1-0 win over Orlando City. Since that match, Houston has allowed eight goals in four road matches across all competitions. The defense has been very good at home, with two shutouts in that span, but away from Shell Energy Stadium has been a challenge. If the Dynamo can bring that defense to Southern California tonight, they have a great chance of leaving with a result.
Flexing Their Pec
Brazilian attacker Gabriel Pec enters this match in great form. He was involved in both goals in the win over Seattle with a goal and assist. In LA’s two matches before that, he scored three times. Pec likes to operate off the right side, cutting inside to create for himself and teammates. The Dynamo will have to keep a close eye on him at all times from transition to sustained attacks.
Houston Dynamo FC – Out: Lucas Halter (lower body), Jimmy Maurer (head), Sam Vines (lower body); Questionable: Diadie Samassekou (head)
LA Galaxy – Out: Emiro Garces (foot), Joao Klauss (foot)
Predicted Lineup
