Houston Dynamo FC embarked on a preseason trip to Guadalajara, Mexico, on January 29, 2024, to prepare for the upcoming 2024 season. The team will play a series of closed-door matches against several Mexico Fc teams, including C.D. Guadalajara (Chivas), Tecos FC, and Leones Negros. This trip marks the second consecutive year the Dynamo have chosen Mexico for their extended preseason training.
Dynamo FC Focuses on Mexico for Preseason Preparation
Dynamo General Manager Pat Onstad highlighted the importance of the Mexico trip, citing last year’s successful preseason in Toluca and Mexico City as a key factor in the team’s performance. He emphasized the strong connection between Houston and Mexico and the desire to strengthen relationships with Mexican clubs and the federation. The team aims to build on the foundation laid during last year’s trip and further develop their strategies and teamwork through challenging matches against quality Mexico FC opponents.
Dynamo FC to Face Diverse Mexico FC Competition
The Dynamo’s 10-day trip includes matches against a diverse range of Mexico FC teams:
- C.D. Guadalajara (Chivas): A founding member of Liga MX, the top tier of Mexican football, Chivas boasts 12 league titles and a consistent presence in the top division. They are one of Mexico’s most successful and historically significant teams.
- Tecos FC: Associated with the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara AC, Tecos has a unique history, having risen from the lower divisions to claim a Liga MX championship. Currently competing in Liga Premier, the third tier of Mexican football, they offer a different style of play for the Dynamo to contend with.
- Leones Negros: Competing in the Liga de Expansión MX, the second division of Mexican football, Leones Negros has a rich history with multiple domestic titles and three runner-up finishes in Liga MX. They provide a strong test for the Dynamo as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Building on Past Success and Looking Ahead
Head Coach Ben Olsen emphasized the value of training in a different environment and facing high-caliber Mexico FC opponents. This intensive training period allows the team to refine their tactics and build camaraderie before the official season commences. Following the Mexico trip, the Dynamo will return to Houston for a scrimmage against Orlando City SC before their season opener against St. Louis CITY SC in the Concacaf Champions Cup on February 20th. The Dynamo qualified for the tournament by winning the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Their regular season begins on February 24th at Shell Energy Stadium against Sporting Kansas City.
