Los Angeles Fc Lfc vs Houston Dynamo Hou Picks and Predictions August 31st 2024

Dynamo Begin Late Playoff Push with Home-and-Home Against LAFC

The Houston Dynamo are gearing up for a pivotal stretch in their season with upcoming consecutive games against Los Angeles FC, with the initial showdown taking place in Southern California. These matches are important for the Dynamo, who are ranked eighth in the Western Conference, as they strive to qualify for the postseason.

Dynamo’s Playoff Ambitions

The Dynamo (10-8-7, 37 points) are coming off a disappointing 1-0 home loss to Toronto FC, a result that has left them just outside the playoff positions. Although they have a game in hand against several of the teams above them in the standings, the Dynamo are aware of the importance of securing points against the defending Western Conference champions.

Manager Ben Olsen emphasized the significance of the upcoming matches, acknowledging the strength of LAFC but also expressing confidence in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion.

“We understand that they’re a very good team. They continue to put themselves in finals year after year because they’ve proven that they’re one of the best teams in this league,” Olsen said. “But we’re healthy, and I think we have a lot to prove right now. We understand that points are valuable. Every point counts right now to try to put ourselves in the postseason.”

The Dynamo will be looking to avenge their 2-0 loss to LAFC in last year’s Western Conference final, a result that ended their playoff run despite beating LAFC twice in the regular season. Additionally, Houston is hoping for more production from summer signing Ezequiel Ponce, who has yet to score in MLS play but found the net once during the Leagues Cup.

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LAFC’s Fatigue and Form

LAFC (14-5-5, 47 points) might be facing fatigue as they enter this important period. The team has been occupied this week, with their latest accomplishment being a hard-earned 1-0 win over the Seattle Sounders in the U.S. Open Cup semifinal on Wednesday evening, courtesy of a late penalty converted by Denis Bouanga.

That victory came just three days after a disappointing 3-1 loss to Columbus in the Leagues Cup final, where LAFC conceded twice in second-half stoppage time. Despite the demanding schedule, LAFC manager Steve Cherundolo praised his players for their resilience and determination.

“I think our LAFC players are monsters, and they showed great heart tonight,” Cherundolo said after Wednesday’s win. “Skill, control, control of their emotions, and the physical side of the game as well to beat a very good Sounders team on a very difficult surface.”

Bouanga, LAFC’s top performer this season with 16 goals, featured in the entirety of both the U.S. Open Cup and Leagues Cup final matches. Cherundolo is now tasked with the decision of either giving his star player a break or keeping him in the starting lineup for the two upcoming matches against Houston.

Key Players and Potential Debuts

If Olivier Giroud, who is France’s top scorer of all time, plays in these games, he could also play a crucial role for LAFC in his MLS debut. Giroud played in four games in the Leagues Cup and has the potential to enhance the already strong LAFC offense.

Ponce’s impact on the Dynamo will be closely monitored as the team aims to increase their goal count. His knack for scoring goals could be vital in these closely fought games against a formidable LAFC team.

Series Outlook

The Dynamo must perform at their highest level against a resilient LAFC team in order to earn important points for the playoffs, despite the challenges of a demanding schedule. Both teams have a lot on the line, so this two-game series at home and away will be a crucial and intense moment in the Western Conference playoff competition.