Charlotte FC, Dynamo Pride Themselves on Staunch Defense
Two of the best defensive teams in MLS will clash as Charlotte FC visit the Houston Dynamo on Saturday. Both clubs have built their success on strong defensive records and are looking to extend their unbeaten streaks.
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Defensive Prowess
Charlotte FC
Charlotte FC has only conceded 20 goals this season, the second lowest in the league. Their recent form has been heavily reliant on their defensive capabilities.
Houston Dynamo
The Dynamo have conceded 23 goals, tying them for the third-fewest in MLS. Their solid defense has been crucial in their climb back over the playoff line.
Recent Form
Houston Dynamo
Houston (7-6-6, 27 points) has a 2-0-3 record in their last five matches, scoring 13 of their 26 total goals during this streak. Their recent offensive improvement was highlighted by a season-best four-goal performance in a 4-1 road win over D.C. United last Saturday. This victory ended a run of three consecutive draws.
Dynamo coach Ben Olsen praised his team’s resilience:
“We’d talked all week about being a hair more pragmatic at times to maximize points. … We saw that (last Saturday), which was really nice,” Olsen said.
Charlotte FC
Charlotte (9-6-5, 32 points) had a season-high 18 shots and seven shots on target in their 2-0 victory at the Philadelphia Union on June 22. This offensive breakout complemented another strong defensive performance, as Charlotte recorded their league-best ninth shutout.
“It’s just the mentality of being tough to beat,” defender Andrew Privett said. “Not giving the other team many chances, being organized … and having each other’s back. So (if) one guy gets beat, the next one’s there to stop anything.”
Charlotte is 6-1-3 in their past 10 matches and 3-0-1 in their last four. After scoring only 15 goals in their first 16 matches, Charlotte has netted eight times during their four-match unbeaten run.
Key Players and Absences
Charlotte FC
Charlotte will be without captain Ashley Westwood, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. Westwood, along with Andrew Privett and goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, has played every minute this season. Patrick Agyemang leads the team with five goals.
Houston Dynamo
Latif Blessing, who also has five goals, leads Houston’s scoring efforts.
Conclusion
Both Charlotte FC and the Houston Dynamo are ready to compete with their solid defensive performances and recent offensive advancements ahead of their upcoming match. Both teams will aim to lengthen their undefeated runs and strengthen their positions in the rankings. This game is expected to display organized defense and well-timed goals.