match recap

laFC 2-0 Houston dynamo

Juan Hernandez May 4, 2025

LAFC Defeats Houston Dynamo 2-0 to Extend Unbeaten Streak

Date: May 4, 2025
Competition: MLS Regular Season
Venue: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles
Final Score: LAFC 2–0 Houston Dynamo

Match Overview

On May 3, 2025, at BMO Stadium, LAFC earned a commanding 2-0 victory over Houston Dynamo FC, stretching their unbeaten run to four matches. With this win, LAFC climbed to fifth place in the Western Conference with 17 points, signaling strong mid-season form.

The goals came from Nathan Ordaz and Jeremy Ebobisse, with key contributions from Timothy Tillman, Denis Bouanga, and Sergi Palencia.

First Half: Ordaz Opens the Scoring

LAFC struck first with a clinical early goal:

  • 10th minute: Nathan Ordaz scored after a sharp counterattack.

  • Build-up: Timothy Tillman intercepted the ball in midfield and launched a quick transition, feeding right back Sergi Palencia on the flank.

  • Palencia’s cross: The Spanish defender delivered a perfect ball across the box, and Ordaz calmly finished for his second league goal of the season.

This early strike set the tone, putting Houston on the back foot for much of the match.

Second Half: Ebobisse Seals It

In the 79th minute, substitute Jeremy Ebobisse doubled LAFC’s advantage:

  • Tillman again initiated the move, sending a long pass to Denis Bouanga on the left wing.

  • Bouanga charged forward and squared the ball into the box.

  • Ebobisse coolly finished from close range, scoring his first goal since joining LAFC.

Houston Dynamo’s Struggles

Despite slightly higher possession (51.4%), Houston Dynamo failed to create real chances:

  • Shots on target: Zero.

  • Total shots: Just four.

  • Best performer: Goalkeeper Jonathan Bond kept the Dynamo competitive, making eight saves, including a record-tying six in the first half.

Houston’s attacking efforts fell short, repeatedly stifled by LAFC’s well-organized back line.

Standout Performances

✅ Timothy Tillman (LAFC):

  • Key in both goals.

  • Dominated the midfield and transitions.

✅ Sergi Palencia (LAFC):

  • Delivered the precise assist on Ordaz’s opener.

  • Balanced attacking runs and defensive duties on the right.

✅ Jonathan Bond (Houston Dynamo):

  • Made eight crucial saves.

  • Prevented a wider scoreline with excellent first-half stops.

Manager Reactions

  • Steve Cherundolo (LAFC head coach):
    “We were sharp on the break, disciplined at the back — overall, a great team performance.”

  • Ben Olsen (Houston Dynamo head coach):
    “We didn’t match their speed or execution in key moments. We have to be better.”

What’s Next?

  • LAFC:
    Travels to face the San Jose Earthquakes on May 10, aiming to continue climbing the table.

  • Houston Dynamo:
    Prepares for a U.S. Open Cup Round of 32 clash against Phoenix Rising FC on May 7.

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

mls-lafc-houston