Lukas MacNaughton’s 90th-minute goal gives St. Louis City a 1-0 win

St. Louis City won 1-0 away to Houston Dynamo, with Lukas MacNaughton scoring in the 90th minute to settle a match Houston had largely controlled by shots and expected goals. The late strike, assisted by Alexandru Măţan, changed a goalless contest into a St. Louis victory.

MacNaughton decides it late

The score remained 0-0 until the final minute listed in the match events. MacNaughton’s normal goal made it 0-1, giving St. Louis City the winner despite Houston’s stronger attacking numbers. The goal was MacNaughton’s defining contribution, alongside a match rating of 7.8, one shot on target and two tackles.

Houston created more attempts, recording 23 shots to St. Louis City’s 13 and six shots on goal to one. The Dynamo also had the higher expected-goals figure, 1.35 compared with St. Louis City’s 0.89. However, St. Louis had 59% possession, completed 424 passes accurately compared with Houston’s 270, and protected its lead after scoring.

Lundt protects St. Louis lead

B. Lundt was the standout performer, earning an 8.1 rating and making six saves in 90 minutes. His performance was especially important given Houston’s 12 shots inside the box and nine shots off target. Houston’s Guilherme also offered a threat with five key passes and two shots on target.

The only card was shown to Houston’s Lucas Halter in the 82nd minute. Houston made four listed substitutions, while St. Louis made two before the decisive goal.

Western Conference positions after the match

St. Louis City are ranked #3 in the Western Conference with 54 points from 34 games, three points ahead of Houston Dynamo. Houston are ranked #5 with 51 points from 34 games. The result leaves St. Louis 10 points behind leaders Vancouver Whitecaps, while Houston trail the leaders by 13 points.