Houston Dynamo FC drops close match to Toronto FC

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loco Photography, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (August 24, 2024)  Houston Dynamo FC lost a close game to Toronto FC, 1-0, at Shell Energy Stadium. Despite controlling the ball for most of the match and taking twice as many shots as Toronto, the Dynamo couldn't find the back of the net.

The game’s only goal came in the 54th minute when Toronto's Prince Owusu scored with a header that deflected off Dynamo defender Griffin Dorsey. The ball bounced into the goal, leaving Dynamo goalkeeper helpless.

The Dynamo started strong, creating their first big chance in the ninth minute. Héctor Herrera sent a through ball to forward Aliyu Ibrahim, who crossed it into the box. Unfortunately, Toronto’s defense blocked the chance.

Forward Ezequiel Ponce had Houston’s first shot on target after Herrera set him up from a set piece. Ponce’s quick shot forced Toronto goalkeeper Sean Johnson to make a tough save. Another good chance came in the 16th minute when Dorsey fired a powerful volley, but the ball went just wide of the post.

Houston’s defense also had a big moment when Erik Sviatchenko took a shot from outside the box in the 21st minute. His shot was heading for the top corner, but Johnson was there again to make a quick save.

The Dynamo almost tied the game in the 62nd minute. After a goal-line clearance by Toronto, the ball fell to defender Franco Escobar, who struck it hard, but it hit the crossbar.

Dynamo forward Lawrence Ennali made his debut in this game, marking an important moment for the team. Despite the loss, Houston remains in the playoff race with nine games left, five of which will be at home.

The Dynamo will next travel to Los Angeles to face LAFC on Saturday, August 31, before returning home for a rematch on September 7.