Lessons Learned: Colorado Rapids
(image via Houston Dynamo FC)
The last time the Houston Dynamo faced the Colorado Rapids, things got ugly. Houston lost 6–2 in a game that exposed many gaps. So, what did the Dynamo get right? And, what went wrong and must change in tomorrow’s match?
What Houston Got Right
There were flashes going forward. Houston created chances and found the net twice, showing they can hurt Colorado when they move the ball with intent. The Dynamo had 20 shots and finished with 2.61 xG. The offense showed up, and threatened the Rapids’ defense in large spells. Lawrence Ennali and Duane Holmes had success in the wide areas attacking Colorado’s young fullbacks. The openess of the game certainly contributed to that but the pace on the flanks, along with Guilherme, was a focal point in this match for Houston.
What Went Wrong
Defensively, it unraveled. The Dynamo conceded twice in the first 17 minutes, putting themselves in a 2-0 hole so early on. Colorado punished transitions, capitalized on loose marking, and converted chances at a ruthless rate. One mistake quickly became several, and the game got away. Houston’s back line couldn’t control Rafa Navarro and the Colorado midfield seeminly overran the Dynamo for long stretches. It wasn’t Jonathan Bond’s best night either, conceding six goals on just 2.72 xG from Colorado, with their final goal coming from a penalty kick.
What Must Change
This time, it starts with control. This doesn’t necessariyl mean possesion, as the last match was only slightly in Colorado’s favor at 51% to 49%. Houston needs to stay compact, limit transitions, and be sharper in key moments, both defensively and in front of goal. The lesson is simple: flashes aren’t enough. Execution is everything. Up top, the Dynamo need more than just Guilherme. Ezequiel Ponce and Mateusz Bogusz were afterthoughts in the first match, that can’t happen again. Houston also need to do much better in the center of the field, from the central midfielders to the center backs. Colorado controlled that area and took over the match. That battle will be key again in this match if the Dynamo want to get a result.
Here are the starting lineups for each team in the last match (via Fotmob):
