Enemy Scouting Report - LAFC

(image via LAFC)

The Houston Dynamo will look to rebound after their tough 1-0 loss to Toronto FC at home last weekend. Despite dominating possession and taking 18 shots, the Dynamo struggled to convert their chances against a Toronto side that had only one clear opportunity but played sound defensively. The Dynamo looked sharp and in control but couldn’t find the back of the net. Such is the nature of football—sometimes you play well but don’t get the result.

Tonight’s match against LAFC will be a significant test. LAFC, who had a slow start to the season, have since demonstrated their quality. They feature players like last year’s Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga, who notched 16 goals and eight assists, and is now supported by a strong cast including breakout star Mateusz Bogusz, Timothy Tillman, Eduard Atuesta (returning for a second stint), and Cristian Olivera. The addition of Olivier Giroud, expected to make his MLS debut tonight, adds even more threat to their lineup with his experience and goal-scoring ability.

For the Dynamo, it’s crucial to watch out for LAFC’s counterattacks, as they have scored many goals this way, leveraging the speed of Bouanga and Olivera. Set pieces are another area to be mindful of, with Atuesta or Lewis O’Brien potentially delivering to Giroud or Kei Kamara, who will be significant targets in the box.

LAFC Record: 14W-5D-5L

Results in the last 30 days:

July 30 - LAFC 2-2 Vancouver (Leagues Cup

August 7 - LAFC 2-0 Austin (Leagues Cup)

August 13 - LAFC 4-1 San Jose (Leagues Cup)

August 17 - Seattle 0-3 LAFC (Leagues Cup)

August 21 - LAFC 4-0 Colorado (Leagues Cup)

August 25 - Columbus 3-1 LAFC (Leagues Cup)

August 28 - Seattle 0-1 LAFC (US Open Cup)

Past Match Staring XI (from fotmob.com)

There will likely be some variation but look to see many of the players in the graphic starting.

2024 Active Roster

Goalkeepers: Hugo Lloris, Thomas Hasal, David Ochoa

Defenders: Aaron Long, Ryan Hollingshead, Eddie Segura, Erik Duenas, Jesus Murillo, Omar Campos, Sergi Palencia, Maxime Chanot

Midfielders: Eduard Atuesta, Ille Sanchez, Timothy Tillman, Lewis O’Brien, Mateusz Bogusz, Cristian Olivera, Thomas Musto, David Martinez

Forwards: Olivier Giroud, Nathan Ordaz, Denis Bouanga

Can Houston get their revenge from last year’s MLS Western Conference Final?