Houston Dynamo Hou vs Los Angeles Fc Lfc Picks and Predictions September 7th 2024

LAFC Faces Houston Dynamo Rematch Without Key Starters

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) is looking to bounce back after a surprising home loss to the Houston Dynamo last Saturday. The two teams are set to clash again in a rescheduled match in Houston, after their original fixture was postponed in July due to Hurricane Beryl. However, LAFC is facing a significant challenge, as they will be without several key players due to international duty. This leaves the Black and Gold in a tough spot for this pivotal matchup.

Key Absences for LAFC

LAFC’s lineup will be missing some of their most crucial players. Their top three MLS goal-scorers, Denis Bouanga (16 goals), Mateusz Bogusz (13 goals), and Cristian Olivera (5 goals), are all unavailable due to international call-ups. These three players have combined for 34 of LAFC’s goals this season, and their absence will significantly reduce the team’s attacking firepower.

In their place, Olivier Giroud, France’s all-time leading scorer, is expected to make his first MLS start. Giroud, who made his debut off the bench last weekend, will now step into a more prominent role as LAFC looks to regain its form in this crucial rematch.

Despite the roster shakeup, LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo remains confident. “We’re missing some players, and we might have to change things in a few positions, but it shouldn’t affect us too much,” Cherundolo said. “We will still field a team we feel good about to get some points in Houston, which is always a tough test.”

Houston’s Momentum and Challenges

The Houston Dynamo (11-8-7, 40 points) are riding high after a strong performance in their 2-0 victory over LAFC last Saturday, marking their third consecutive regular-season win over the Black and Gold. Summer signings Lawrence Ennali and Ezequiel Ponce both netted their first MLS goals in the match. Unfortunately for Houston, Ennali’s season came to an abrupt end after he suffered an ACL tear, dealing a blow to their squad.

Houston, currently sitting in seventh place, has struggled to find consistent success at home in 2024, with just four wins in front of their fans. However, with five of their remaining eight games being at home, head coach Ben Olsen understands the importance of improving their home form to secure a playoff spot.

Recent Head-to-Head and Context

Houston has had the edge in their recent regular-season meetings, winning three straight against LAFC. However, LAFC did come out on top in the 2023 Western Conference final, reminding everyone that these games carry high stakes.

With LAFC missing some of their top stars and Houston eager to take advantage of home-field support, this rematch has major implications for playoff positioning. For LAFC, the challenge is clear: finding a way to win without their top scorers. For Houston, it’s about maintaining their momentum and turning their home form around as they push for a stronger finish to the season.

What’s at Stake?

For LAFC, it’s all about surviving this tough stretch without their key players while keeping their position in the standings intact. Navigating these international absences is critical as they aim to stay competitive in the playoff race.

For Houston, this is a prime opportunity to capitalize on LAFC’s weakened squad and strengthen their postseason push. With home-field advantage and LAFC missing their attacking trio, the Dynamo have a great chance to solidify their spot in the playoffs.

Both teams have a lot riding on this game, and despite LAFC’s missing firepower, this matchup promises to be a gritty and hard-fought contest in Houston.