San Jose Earthquakes vs Houston Dynamo: Werner Ruled Out
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The San Jose Earthquakes face the Houston Dynamo in Round 25 of the Major League Soccer regular season on September 13. With the two sides meeting just weeks after a closely fought goalless draw, this quick turnaround offers both clubs a chance to find a crucial attacking breakthrough.
San Jose Earthquakes Form Guide
San Jose recently snapped a dismal four-game losing streak, but they had to rely on a sturdy defensive display against Houston in late August to secure a 0-0 draw. Prior to that stalemate, the Earthquakes endured a rough patch, shipping nine goals across defeats to Minnesota United, the LA Galaxy, St. Louis City SC, and FC Cincinnati. With 11-goal striker Preston Judd leading the line, the Earthquakes are searching for an offensive spark, having managed just three goals over their last five outings.
Houston Dynamo Form Guide
Ben Olsen’s Houston Dynamo have built their recent success on a rigid defensive foundation. The Dynamo boast an impressive ten clean sheets this season, including six shutouts in their last seven matches. While their backline has been exceptional, their attack heavily revolves around Brazilian playmaker Guilherme. The forward has scored or assisted on 63.3 percent of Houston's goals this season, keeping him firmly in pursuit of Sebastien Le Toux’s all-time single-season MLS goal-contribution record.
Team News and Injury Latest
The Earthquakes are dealing with a significant injury list, most notably the absence of Timo Werner. The forward, who has tallied six goals and created 30 chances this season, is ruled out with a lower-body injury alongside DeJuan Jones, Earl Edwards Jr., and Darius Johnson.
Houston also travel with depleted numbers. High-profile loan signing Lyle Foster will have to wait for his MLS debut, as the South African forward is ruled out. Veteran goalkeeper Jimmy Maurer is sidelined with a back issue, while Marcelo Saracchi remains questionable due to a lower-body problem.
As the Major League Soccer regular season enters its final stretch, both Western Conference contenders need points to solidify their playoff positioning. Securing a victory here would provide vital momentum ahead of the congested autumn schedule.
