:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57306085/usa_today_10350528.0.jpg)
Fresh off of an insane decision day, where the Houston Dynamo found themselves rolling over a strong Chicago side 3-0 and not only qualifying for playoffs for the first time since 2013, but also hosting the first match. Now they find themselves in a familiar situation, playing Western Conference rival Sporting Kansas City in the playoffs.
The Dynamo finished 4th in the Western Conference with 50 points, meanwhile SKC finished 5th in the Western Conference just a point below Houston with 49. Sporting looked set to land the home field advantage but lost their final regular season match, sending the game to BBVA Compass Stadium.
On Sunday, the Dynamo as a whole were very strong together. A second minute goal, scored and assisted by our center backs Leonardo and Machado, set the tone for the entire game. Romell Quioto and the attack were in top form and they really challenged the Fire defense.
Houston still suffered a tough loss with A.J. Delegarza tearing his ACL, ending his season. However, Jalil Anibaba stepped up to the task and was very solid on offense in defense, and should he perform like that on Thursday, Anibaba could make things very difficult for SKC.
Historically, the playoff matchups between Houston and Kansas City have been fantastic, and you should expect nothing less from game. The two teams will have played each other three times in the last two weeks and will know each other very well. But Houston look to prevail after earning 4 out of 6 points in those two matches, as well as having a fantastic home record.
Wednesday night will host the first two games of the MLS Playoffs followed by two more games on Thursday. The winner of each game will advance to the next round of the playoffs. The second round of the playoffs will feature a home-and-away series to determine who will advance to the next round.
The game kicks off at 8:30 pm CT this Thursday.