Houston Dynamo FC: On the Road to Glory in the 2023 Audi MLS Cup

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA-SEPTEMBER 27: Houston Dynamo midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla (20) controls the ball during a match between the Houston Dynamo and Inter Miami at DRV PNK Stadium on September 27, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (Photo by Carl Kafka/ISI Photos/USSF//Getty Images for USSF)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA-SEPTEMBER 27: Houston Dynamo midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla (20) controls the ball during a match between the Houston Dynamo and Inter Miami at DRV PNK Stadium on September 27, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (Photo by Carl Kafka/ISI Photos/USSF//Getty Images for USSF) /
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Houston Dynamo FC is back on the MLS scene with a stunning turnaround in the 2023 season, and the credit for this resurrection belongs to first-year coach Ben Olsen and his fearless players. This is a story that not only reignites the passion of Dynamo fans but also serves as a lesson in perseverance and renewal in the world of soccer.

Breaking a five-year playoff drought is a remarkable feat in itself, but the fact that Houston Dynamo FC also clinched the 2023 US Open Cup title just a week earlier is truly extraordinary. It’s a testament to the team’s commitment to reestablishing themselves as one of the top contenders in MLS.

Dynamo’s sixth-place finish in the Western Conference puts them in the mix for home-field advantage at least in the first round of the playoffs, a privilege reserved for the top four teams in the table. This is a remarkable turnaround for a team that has spent so much time in the postseason shadows.

Héctor Herrera is arguably the engine behind this resurgence. His stats of 4 goals and 14 assists as a midfielder are impressive and highlight his importance to the team. The Mexican international has embraced his leadership role, and his influence on the field is undeniable.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA-SEPTEMBER 27: Houston Dynamo forward Ibrahim Aliyu (18) controls the ball during a match between the Houston Dynamo and Inter Miami at DRV PNK Stadium on September 27, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (Photo by Carl Kafka/ISI Photos/USSF//Getty Images for USSF)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA-SEPTEMBER 27: Houston Dynamo forward Ibrahim Aliyu (18) controls the ball during a match between the Houston Dynamo and Inter Miami at DRV PNK Stadium on September 27, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (Photo by Carl Kafka/ISI Photos/USSF//Getty Images for USSF) /

Coco Carrasquilla, the Panamanian international, also deserves recognition. His performance in the Concacaf Gold Cup caught the attention of top European clubs, a sign of his quality as a player. Carrasquilla is a vital part of Dynamo’s midfield.

The acquisition of Amine Bassi this season was a true success. With 9 goals and 3 assists, he brought an additional layer of depth to the team’s attack. Furthermore, his penalty-taking ability is a valuable asset. Erik Sviatchenko, a veteran central defender, also strengthened the team with his experience.

As we prepare for the 2023 Audi MLS Cup playoffs, the enthusiasm of Houston Dynamo FC fans is at an all-time high. The team’s story of overcoming adversity, led by Ben Olsen, is inspiring not only the supporters but also soccer enthusiasts worldwide.

With the Audi MLS Cup set for December 9, and the playoffs kicking off in October, the Dynamo’s journey is far from over. They are ready to face the challenges ahead, and based on their remarkable performance so far, the hope of a return to glory is more alive than ever. Houston Dynamo FC is not just a soccer team; they are an example of resilience and determination deserving of the support of their fans and sports admirers.