For the second time in two weeks, LAFC are taking on Houston Dynamo in MLS action. After suffering a 2-0 loss at home at the hands of the Dynamo, Los Angeles come into tonight looking to return the favor in kind with a top performance of their own. It wont be easy for them though, as they also come into this match shorthanded, with six players missing this match while representing their respective countries in International action. Still, the result is there for LAFC, who need to get back to stacking up points consistently, instead of dropping them.
📍 Houston pic.twitter.com/8yMwQLultE
— LAFC (@LAFC) September 8, 2024
LAFC came out for kickoff with a different look, rolling out what looked to be a 4-3-1-2. It was a more defensive look, which was expected for them missing several key pieces in attack. As usual, the team was fine with giving Houston the majority of the possession, with the home side keeping 69% of the ball in the first half. While they dominated most of the half, Dynamo only mustered two shots on target with just one really threatening chance. LAFC looked to have smashed a late goal for the lead to close out the half, but the ruling of offside wiped it off the board. Still, it was a sign that this team could still be dangerous.
The real highlight of the first half was the play of LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris who came up with a couple massive saves, one being the stop that kept out the real threatening attack from Dynamo.
Snagged 🧤
Hugo Lloris making it look easy.#HOUvLAFC 0-0 pic.twitter.com/MC40vH7Mqj
— LAFC (@LAFC) September 8, 2024
All things considered, LAFC must have been happy to see the halftime whistle come without giving up a goal to the home side. The teams went into break tied at zero, and everything left to play for. The result was definitely there for LAFC to grab. The second half was exactly like the first half. Los Angeles were happy to let Houston keep the ball, which they did, and they defended any attempts at goal. Dynamo only got one shot on target, as they continued to not really do much of anything with their possession. As the half went on, it was clear LAFC were happy with the point on the road, and started to just solidify the defense even more. They did keep the attack mind with a few little counters, but in the end, considering the amount of players missing, a point on road to Houston was good enough on the night. As it stands, LAFC sit in second place in the West, four points off the leading LA Galaxy. However, they will have their chance to close that gap next week when they take the trip down the freeway to Carson for the rivalry match against Galaxy. No heatwave expected then, but it will still be a heated affair.
Thoughts on the draw tonight? Leave a comment below!