Enemy Scouting Report - Seattle Sounders
The Houston Dynamo are maintaining their strong momentum following the extended international break, securing a valuable point on the road in Atlanta last weekend. Ben Olsen's side has shown composure in midfield since the return of captain Hector Herrera. However, defensive lapses have resulted in conceding scoring opportunities to their opponents. Looking ahead to Seattle, a team that historically troubles Houston, fine-tuning these details will be crucial.
Seattle, like Houston, has been prolific in front of goal this season, scoring 22 times but conceding 21. Raul Ruidiaz leads the team with 7 goals, followed by Jordan Morris with 5. The scoring load has been distributed among 8 players, each contributing one goal. Despite their experienced squad, Seattle has shown signs of fatigue. The departure of Nico Lodeiro marked the end of an era, with Pedro De La Vega brought in as his replacement. Unfortunately, De La Vega has been limited to just 3 appearances due to a hamstring injury.
Houston will need to keep a close watch on Morris and Albert Rusnak. As the team regains fitness and players return to full health, developing chemistry with these key players will be pivotal, highlighting the tactical acumen of coach Brian Schmetzer.
Seattle Sounders Record: 5W-6D-7L
Results in the last 30 days:
May 18 - Seattle 1-1 Vancouver
May 22 - Seattle 2-1 Phoenix Rising (USOC)
May 25 - St. Louis 1-2 Seattle
May 29 - Seattle 1-1 Salt Lake
June 8 - Sporting KC 2-1 Seattle
June 15 - Seattle 2-0 Minnesota
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: Stefan Frei, Andrew Thomas, Jacob Castro
Defenders: Nathan, Yeimar Gomez, Nouhou Tolo, Alex Roldan, Jon Bell, Cody Baker, Jackson Ragen, Stuart Russell-Hawkins, Antino Lopez
Midfielders: Joao Paulo, Cristian Roldan, Josh Atencio, Pedro de la Vega, Albert Rusnak, Paul Rothrock, Obed Vargas, Reed Baker-Whiting, Leo Chu, Snyder Brunell, Danny Leyva, Sota Kitahara, Kalani Kossa-Rienzi, Georgi Minoungou
Forwards: Raul Ruidiaz, Jordan Morris, Danny Musovski, Braudillo Rodrigues, Osaze De Rosario, Dylan Teves
Can Houston finally get a win over Seattle?