Houston Dynamo Aims for Offensive Improvement Against Colorado Rapids

Houston Dynamo coach Ben Olsen is calling for a sharper offensive display as his team prepares to host the Colorado Rapids on Saturday.

The Dynamo (4-5-0, 12 points) have faced challenges in converting opportunities near the box, a situation Olsen emphasized must change. “We are a little toothless in our attack,” Olsen stated. “We have to be a little more patient and balanced and figure out the final third.”

Last Saturday, Houston fell 2-0 to Austin, despite holding 53.9% of possession. Before this loss, the Dynamo secured two consecutive 1-0 victories but have been outscored 18-12 in the season so far.

Leading the Dynamo is Guilherme Augusto, who has registered five goals and four assists. “For 100 minutes a week, you’ve got to summon something, summon the best in yourself,” Olsen commented. “And that’s the responsibility these players have and I have.”

The Colorado Rapids (4-5-1, 13 points) seek to recover after suffering a 3-1 defeat against the Vancouver Whitecaps last Saturday. Rafael Navarro scored the only goal for Colorado, and the Brazilian forward is currently the team’s top scorer with seven goals and four assists, along with 19 shots on target.

Navarro’s goal last week marked his 50th regular-season goal contribution in his fourth year with Colorado, making him the eighth player in the franchise to reach this milestone.

Defender Keegan Rosenberry expressed the need for better starts during matches. “From the first whistle, we have to show up as ourselves,” Rosenberry said. “We have to have that bravery and meet the demands of the game better.”

In their earlier encounter this season, the Rapids triumphed over the Dynamo with a 6-2 victory at home on April 11, with Kosi Thompson and Navarro each scoring twice. However, since that match, Colorado has recorded a challenging 0-2-1 in league play.

“We have to do the necessary dirty stuff to win games,” said Colorado coach Matt Wells. “Our football warrants that.”