HOUSTON (AP) — In a night filled with celebration and competitive spirit, the Seattle Sounders defeated the Houston Dynamo 3-1 at Shell Energy Stadium on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The match not only marked the Dynamo's 20th anniversary, honoring franchise legends like Dwayne De Rosario, but also showcased the rising talent of his son, Osaze De Rosario, who made his MLS debut.
The Sounders took control of the match early, with Danny Musovski scoring in the 22nd minute. Musovski, filling in for the injured Jordan Morris, headed home a precision cross from Paul Rothrock, marking his fifth consecutive game with a goal. This achievement ties him with club legends Raúl Ruidíaz, Fredy Montero, and Obafemi Martins as just the fourth Sounder to score in five straight matches.
Houston's Femi Awodesu answered back in the 32nd minute, leveling the score with a well-placed header off a free kick delivered by Jack McGlynn. However, the match took a dramatic turn just six minutes later. Awodesu was shown a red card for a handball that denied Musovski a clear goal-scoring opportunity, leading to a free kick just outside the penalty area. Although the initial call was a penalty, a video review overturned it, yet the red card stood, leaving Houston a man down for the remainder of the match.
As the second half kicked off, Seattle capitalized on their numerical advantage almost immediately. Just 50 seconds into the half, Albert Rusnák, who had been a key player throughout the match, scored the go-ahead goal. After a brilliant setup by Pedro de la Vega, Rusnák struck with a left-footed shot from the penalty area, putting the Sounders ahead 2-1.
Rusnák wasn't done yet. In the 58th minute, he added another goal, finishing a cross from Ryan Kent with a powerful right-footed shot from close range. This brace not only solidified Seattle's lead but also showcased the Sounders' depth and offensive firepower.
Despite being a man down, the Dynamo fought valiantly. They created several opportunities, including a dangerous free kick from McGlynn in the 85th minute that was expertly saved by Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei, who was instrumental in maintaining Seattle’s lead with three crucial saves throughout the match.
Seattle's unbeaten streak now extends to five matches, with the Sounders taking 13 points from their last five games and outscoring their opponents 12-3 during this stretch. The Sounders' next challenge comes on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, as they head to Los Angeles to face LAFC, followed by a match against the Portland Timbers on May 17.
For the Dynamo, the match served as a stark reminder of their struggles this season. They came into the game following a 2-0 loss to Los Angeles FC, and their inability to generate consistent offensive pressure continued to plague them, as evidenced by their lack of shots on goal in previous outings. Manager Ben Olsen faces pressing questions about his squad’s creativity and effectiveness in the attacking third.
In a heartwarming subplot, Osaze De Rosario made his MLS debut in the 79th minute, stepping onto the field to join the celebration of his father's legacy. Dwayne De Rosario, a former MLS Cup MVP, was honored during halftime, adding an emotional layer to the night.
The Sounders' victory not only underscores their current form but also highlights the challenges ahead for the Dynamo as they seek to regain their footing in the league. With the season still young, both teams have plenty to play for as they navigate the remainder of their schedules.
As the final whistle blew, the Sounders left Shell Energy Stadium with a significant win, while the Dynamo were left to ponder their next steps in a season that has yet to find its rhythm.
