Seattle Sounders present major hurdle for Houston Dynamo

(image via Houston Dash)

For the Houston Dynamo, one of the biggest thorns in their side over the last decade has been the Seattle Sounders. Since Seattle’s introduction to Major League Soccer in 2009, the Sounders have built a winning culture, solidified by multiple U.S. Open Cup titles, MLS Cups, and consistent playoff appearances. Meanwhile, the Dynamo have struggled in recent years to recapture the consistency and success that once made them a powerhouse in MLS. If Houston is to fully reestablish itself as an elite team, one major hurdle remains: finally beating the Seattle Sounders when it really matters.

History of Struggles

Looking at the head-to-head matchup, the Dynamo’s record against the Sounders tells a frustrating story. Seattle has often found ways to dominate Houston, especially in crucial games. This was painfully evident in the 2017 Western Conference Finals, where the Sounders comfortably dispatched the Dynamo 5-0 over two legs, ending Houston’s hopes of returning to MLS Cup glory.

Beyond playoff heartbreak, Seattle has consistently taken points off the Dynamo during regular-season matchups. Whether at Lumen Field or Shell Energy Stadium, Seattle’s tactical discipline, attacking prowess, and ability to control the tempo have often left Houston struggling to keep up.

Why This Season Is Different for Houston

Under head coach Ben Olsen, the Dynamo have shown significant signs of improvement in the 2024 season. The midfield, led by the tireless Artur and superstar Hector Herrera, has found new levels of cohesion and creativity. Players like Aliyu Ibrahim and Amine Bassi have added dynamism to the attack, while the defense, anchored by Steve Clark in goal, has been more solid than in recent years.

Houston’s record-breaking performances this season have demonstrated their potential to compete with the best teams in MLS. They’ve navigated tough matchups and displayed a newfound resilience and tactical intelligence. While Seattle remains a formidable opponent, they’ve shown defensive vulnerabilities this season—weaknesses that Houston can exploit to finally turn the tide.

Key to Success: Midfield Battle

For Houston to overcome Seattle, controlling the midfield will be essential. The Sounders’ playmakers, like Albert Rusnák and Cristian Roldán, thrive when given time and space to dictate the game’s pace. If Houston can disrupt that rhythm, press effectively, and prevent quick transitions, they will limit Seattle’s chances of creating opportunities in the final third.

Hector Herrera’s leadership will be key in maintaining Houston’s discipline in the pressing game. If the Dynamo can win the ball back quickly and transition with purpose, they have the speed and creativity to hurt the Sounders, especially through players like Griffin Dorsey, who can exploit the spaces left by Seattle’s advancing full-backs.

Home Advantage and Fan Support

The playoffs bring a different atmosphere, and Houston has the advantage of a passionate fan base at Shell Energy Stadium, as we saw in Saturday’s win over the LA Galaxy in front of a sold out crowd. The Houston faithful are hungry for a signature win, and defeating Seattle would not only provide that but also give the team a psychological boost as they aim for a deep playoff run. The home crowd can play a pivotal role in energizing the team and making the stadium an intimidating environment for Seattle, just as Lumen Field offers Seattle its own euphoric crowd.

Time to Change the Narrative

While the Seattle Sounders have long been the dominant team in this rivalry, the gap is closing. Even though Houston didn’t win in their two matchups this year, the Dynamo are a much-improved side with a newfound sense of purpose and direction. Beating Seattle is more than just a single victory—it’s a symbolic moment that could mark Houston’s return to the top tier of MLS.

For the Dynamo, the message is clear: the time to finally beat the Sounders is now. With the right game plan, tactical discipline, and a little home magic, Houston has the tools to overcome one of their greatest challenges. This win could be the catalyst that reignites the Dynamo’s rise in MLS.