For the first time in six years, Houston Dynamo FC have soared into the Western Conference Semifinals, marking a significant turnaround in their soccer journey.
On a vibrant Saturday night, the Dynamo showcased their incredible transformation under the guidance of Ben Olsen. In a gripping match against Real Salt Lake, they triumphed in a penalty kick shootout following a tense 1-1 draw in regular time. This victory was a sweet redemption, especially after their recent shootout loss in the first match of their Round One series.
Ben Olsen, reflecting on his team’s resilience, said, “We rebuilt the team with seasoned winners, experienced in high-stakes games and championships. Their expertise was key.”
The experienced players were indeed pivotal. Héctor Herrera and Corey Baird teamed up for a crucial goal, while goalkeeper Steve Clark was instrumental in the shootout.
However, it was 24-year-old Griffin Dorsey who made the decisive kick, propelling Houston to face Sporting Kansas City in the Semifinals.
Dorsey, chosen for the critical shot over more experienced players, shared, “It was a moment I yearned for, and Ben’s faith in me means everything.”
Houston’s style of play this season has been a blend of fluid, attractive soccer and a gritty, determined approach, a testament to Olsen’s influence, mirroring his playing days and coaching tenure at D.C. United.
Olsen acknowledged the physical challenge posed by RSL, praising their coach Pablo Mastroeni for his resilience and tactical acumen.
The Dynamo’s resurgence was also driven by the veteran leadership on the field. After Diego Luna’s equalizer for Salt Lake, Erik Sviatchenko, a seasoned Danish international, rallied the team to stay focused for the crucial final minutes.
“It’s about the maturity and experience these players bring,” Olsen noted.
Remarkably, after missing playoffs for five seasons, the Dynamo have not only clinched the 2023 US Open Cup but are now advancing to the Semifinals, a swift and surprising progress since Olsen’s appointment a year ago.
Olsen humorously remarked, “It’s been a year already? We might be ahead of our development schedule, but we’re focused on sustaining this momentum.”
As they prepare to host SKC post-international break, the Dynamo are brimming with confidence and a newfound identity.
“We’ll keep pushing forward,” Dorsey reiterated, encouraging continuous belief and ambition.
When asked about the team’s aspirations for the MLS Cup on Dec. 9, Olsen responded with a laugh, “Why not? Dreaming is allowed!”
