Houston Dynamo is set to host Austin FC at Shell Energy Stadium this Saturday, aiming to secure their third consecutive home victory. On the other hand, Austin FC, still seeking their first MLS away win since July 2023, hopes to break a 10-game winless streak on the road.
Match Preview
Houston Dynamo bounced back to winning ways last Sunday with a 2-1 victory over Minnesota United at Allianz Field. Despite falling behind due to an own goal from Alejandro Bran, Franco Fragapane equalized in the 70th minute, with Sebastian Kowalczyk clinching the win shortly after. This victory came after a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Chicago Fire, snapping their three-game win streak.
So far, under the guidance of Ben Olsen, Dynamo has amassed 13 points from four wins and one draw, positioning them third in the Western Conference table, tied with Vancouver Whitecaps.
Conversely, Austin FC experienced a setback last weekend with a 1-0 loss against St. Louis City, courtesy of a second-half goal from Joao Klauss. However, earlier victories over Dallas and San Jose Earthquakes hint at potential, though their road performances have been less than stellar.
Austin FC, with two wins, three draws, and three losses, currently sits 11th in the Western Conference, sharing points with the 10th-placed Portland Timbers.
Team News
Houston Dynamo will be without Nelson Quinones and Hector Herrera due to knee injuries. Additionally, Sebastian Ferreira remains sidelined with a muscle injury incurred in February. There’s also uncertainty surrounding Franco Escobar and Micael dos Santos, who are doubtful for Saturday’s clash.
Austin FC will miss defender Leo Vaisanen, sidelined since late April. Nonetheless, the rest of the squad is healthy, allowing coach Josh Wolff likely to field a lineup similar to last week’s, with key players like Diego Rubio and Sebastian Driussi expected to start.
Predicted Lineups
Houston Dynamo: Clark; Steres, Bartlow, Sviatchenko, Dorsey; Artur, Carrasquilla; Aliyu, Bassi, Blessing; Kowalczyk.
Austin FC: Stuver; Biro, Hines-Ike, Cascante, Gallagher; Pereira, Ring; Wolff, Driussi, Obrian; Rubio.
Prediction
With a solid home record and a boost from their recent win, Houston Dynamo is well-positioned to take advantage of an Austin FC team that has found it challenging to secure points on the road. Predicting a 2-1 victory for Houston Dynamo, they look to leverage their high confidence and home advantage to secure another win.
Stay tuned for more updates and get your tickets early to catch all the action live this weekend!
