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Houston Dynamo Edge América de Cali 2-1 Behind Late Ponce Winner
- Selvin Garcia
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
HOUSTON — Houston Dynamo FC continued their strong run at Shell Energy Stadium with a dramatic 2-1 victory over América de Cali, earning the win in regulation thanks to an early seventh-minute goal from new signing Duncan McGuire and a late winner from Ezequiel Ponce.
One of the biggest storylines of the night was the debut start for Houston’s newest signing, Duncan McGuire. The striker made his first start in orange and immediately gave the Dynamo attack a new look with his movement, physical presence, and ability to stretch the defense. McGuire rewarded that trust by scoring in the 7th minute to put Houston in front early.
Houston struck first to take a 1-0 lead, controlling much of the opening half with confident possession and attacking intent. However, just before halftime, América de Cali found the equalizer. In the second minute of first-half stoppage time (45+2’), Tomás Ángel curled a beautiful free kick into the back of the net, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance and sending both teams into the locker room tied 1-1.
The second half became a tightly contested battle, with both clubs creating chances but neither able to break through. As the clock ticked toward full time, it appeared the match was destined to be decided by a penalty shootout.
Instead, Houston delivered one final moment of brilliance.
In the 85th minute, Ondřej Lingr found space in the attacking third before slipping a perfectly weighted pass to Ezequiel Ponce. The Argentine striker calmly finished past the goalkeeper to make it 2-1, sending the home crowd into celebration and giving the Dynamo what proved to be the match-winning goal.
Houston managed the closing minutes well, holding off América de Cali’s late pressure to secure an impressive victory in front of their supporters.
The win highlighted the impact of Houston’s newest additions, with Duncan McGuire making a promising first start and Ondřej Lingr, Ezequiel Ponce combining for the decisive goal. The performance also showcased the Dynamo’s resilience, responding after conceding just before halftime and finding a late winner to cap off another memorable night at Shell Energy Stadium.
Check out my coverage of this friendly in our latest Foxtrot Gameday below, featuring postgame remarks from Ben Olsen, Artur, and Duncan McGuire. Catch it also on Foxtrot TV, podcast platforms through Noodle Time, and the "Podcasts" tab above.
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