Previewing Houston Dynamo at Minnesota United with Northland Soccer Journal
(image via Minnesota United FC)
The Houston Dynamo are back on the road to take on Minnesota United tomorrow night. We talked to our friend Bridget McDowell from Northland Soccer Journal to get some insight on the Loons ahead of tomorrow’s match.
Bayou City Soccer (BCS): Minnesota is under new leadership with former Manchester United assistant Eric Ramsay as the club's new coach. What has Ramsay brought to the team early on in his time in MLS?
Northland Soccer Journal (NSJ): Coach Ramsay and CSO Khaled El-Ahmad have brought a new energy and a whole new working environment. They've embraced an up-tempo attack that plays to the strengths of the existing squad and a more collaborative environment that is helping them build an on-pitch identity which has been sorely lacking for some time. These guys are playing for each other and holding each other accountable and it's fun to watch.
BCS: It seems like the Emanuel Reynoso saga keeps taking twists and turns. Do you think this is the end for him, and if it is, who picks up the slack in Minnesota's attack?
NSJ: It is the beginning of the end. Even if he were to rejoin the squad today, Reynoso would have to do a lot of work to prove his commitment -- to his teammates, to the franchise, to the fans. The new coaching staff have only seen 30 minutes of him in-game so I think it's easy for them to focus on the present squad and not feel like they're lacking a key piece.
With the new 4-3-3 Reynoso is less of a requirement (he held the 4-2-3-1 together in the past) and Robin Lod and Sang Bin Jeong have filled in the gap from the wings, both connecting with Teemu Pukki. Bongi Hlongwane has been able to the same. They definitely need some more time together to better connect with the midfield but they're getting the job done.
BCS: Tani Oluwaseyi seems to have burst onto the scene of late. What has the youngster added to the squad that also features a dangerous Bongi Hlongwane and Teemu Pukki?
NSJ: Clearly his loan stint in USL last season was the right decision for all parties. Oluwaseyi has 2 goals and 2 assists in 6 substitute appearances -- he's the definition of a super sub. He can replace Pukki when fresh legs are needed, he can pair up with Bongi when quick feet are needed in traffic in the box, he can find the available space to pounce on a loose ball. Tani is also a humble, hard worker, who wants to contribute in whatever way the moment calls for.
BCS: Minnesota have allowed just 7 goals in 6 games this season. What have been some of the keys to their defense being successful early in 2024?
NSJ: So far the Loons have been better in terms of full-squad defense and regaining possession than in years past. It's pretty common to see the forwards sprinting back to cover after a midfield turnover, allowing the high-pressing centerbacks a little time to get back in position. DJ Taylor and Joseph Rosales do quite a bit of box to box work on the wings to keep opponents out of Minnesota's third. The co-captains Michael Boxall and Will Trapp are doing well settling nerves and regrouping after mistakes. It will get more difficult as the season goes on and the minutes pile up but, for now, it works.
BCS: Do the Loons have any injuries coming into this match and what do you expect for a lineup against the Dynamo Saturday?
NSJ: Kevin Arriaga, Mickey Tapias and Zarek Valentin have all been dealing with lingering injuries. Tapias could be ready to dress this weekend but I wouldn't expect it. Joseph Rosales will also be out serving a red card suspension.
———
We want to thank Bridget for her time and wish our friends in Minnesota the best of luck tomorrow night. Be sure to check out our answers to their questions about the Dynamo at Northland Soccer Journal.
