Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CT / 5:30 p.m. PT / 8:30 p.m. ET
Shell Energy Stadium, Houston, Texas
TV/Streaming: Apple TV (MLS Season Pass – free for all MLS games in 2026), local radio
An early-season Western Conference showdown features two unbeaten sides as the Houston Dynamo host the surging Los Angeles FC in their second home match of 2026 at Shell Energy Stadium. Houston builds on a dramatic opening win, while LAFC arrives with momentum from a statement victory over Inter Miami and a strong Concacaf Champions Cup performance. Expect a high-energy clash with attacking talent on display, including new signings and star power.
Weather Updates
Predicted conditions: Mild Houston evening—highs in the upper 60s to low 70s°F (19-22°C) during the day, cooling to mid-50s to low 60s°F (13-17°C) by kickoff. Light winds (5-10 mph), mostly clear to partly cloudy, low chance of precipitation. Comfortable conditions typical for late February in Houston—fast field, good for open play and minimal weather impact on pace or stamina.
Team Context
- Houston Dynamo FC (1-0-0, Western Conference): Strong home opener win; revamped roster with big additions (Guilherme, Mateusz Bogusz, Héctor Herrera return) aims for playoff return after missing in 2025.
- Los Angeles FC (1-0-0, Western Conference): Dominant start under new head coach Marc Dos Santos (+8 GD across MLS/CCC); elite roster with clinical finishing and defensive solidity.
Recent Team Forms (Last Match – Week 1 / Recent)
Dynamo: 1-0-0 (dramatic 2-1 win vs. Chicago Fire on Feb. 21 at Shell Energy Stadium). Guilherme’s brace in MLS debut; resilient comeback from a deficit, showing fight in matches they historically drew/lost.
LAFC: 1-0-0 (convincing 3-0 win vs. Inter Miami on Feb. 21 at LA Memorial Coliseum). Statement performance against defending champs; followed by 1-0 CCC win over Real España (7-1 aggregate advance). High confidence, undefeated in recent stretches.
Injury Report
Houston Dynamo FC:
- No major new injuries from opener. Key additions (Guilherme, Mateusz Bogusz, Héctor Herrera) and core (e.g., J. Shaffelburg if fit) available. Depth strong post-offseason revamp.
Los Angeles FC:
- No significant absences reported post-opener/CCC. Stars (e.g., Denis Bouanga, Mateusz Bogusz if rostered, Olivier Giroud or equivalents) expected fit. Minor fatigue from midweek CCC possible, but rotation healthy.
Both teams in excellent early shape; final checks for any tweaks.
Key Player Matchups
- Guilherme (Dynamo winger/DP, brace in debut) vs. LAFC fullbacks/defense: Guilherme’s flair and finishing test LAFC’s backline—key for Houston counters.
- Mateusz Bogusz (LAFC midfielder/DP) vs. Héctor Herrera / Dynamo midfield: Bogusz’s creativity clashes with Herrera’s experience/control.
- Denis Bouanga / LAFC attack vs. Houston defense: LAFC’s clinical edge exploits spaces; Houston’s revamped backline must contain.
- Set Pieces & Transitions: Both teams strong late/comeback; Houston home energy vs. LAFC’s road form.
Series History
Competitive Western meetings; Houston strong in recent home H2H (wins/draws). LAFC dominant overall in some stretches but vulnerable on road. Games often feature goals, drama, or high totals due to attacking philosophies.
Betting Trends
- LAFC favorites (~54% win prob) with strong form (+8 GD recent).
- Houston value at home after win; undefeated home openers/follow-ups.
- H2H often Over 2.5 or BTTS; high-scoring potential with attacks.
- LAFC undefeated in many recent (18/20); Houston resilient at Shell Energy.
MATCH ODDS
Los Angeles Football Club + 105
Houston Dynamo FC + 220
Draw + 260
Over 2.5 – 130 Under 2.5 + 100
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 27, 2026
