Matchweek 19 of the 2024 MLS NEXT Pro season featured a gem of a performance from Houston Dynamo 2 and midfielder Diego Gonzalez, as well as an impactful outing from Columbus Crew 2 youngster Chase Adams.
Here's a look at the top-performing player, team, and Rising Star of Matchweek 19:
MLS NEXT Pro Team of Matchweek 19: Houston Dynamo 2
Houston Dynamo 2 extended its regulation unbeaten streak to four matches on Sunday after rolling past in-state rivals North Texas SC 4-0.
Dynamo Dos used a 27th minute opening goal from Mattheo Dimareli before Gabriel Segal scored twice and Isaiah Reid scored once in the second half. Playmaking midfielder Diego Gonzalez had a hand in three of the hosts four goals on the night, continuing a productive campaign for the 21-year-old.
Goalkeeper Nicholas Defreitas registered a three-save clean sheet, as Dynamo Dos continued their ascencion up the Western Conference standings.
Now up to 10th place, Kenny Bundy's squad will welcome LAFC2 to town on July 28 to close the month's schedule.
With 11 matches left to play, Dynamo Dos still has a lifeline in the playoff race.
MLS NEXT Pro Player of Matchweek 19: Diego Gonzalez (Houston Dynamo 2)
Although he did not get on the scoresheet for Houston Dynamo 2 on Sunday, Diego Gonzalez was influential in the statement victory.
Gonzalez registered three assists, earning MLS NEXT Pro Player of Matchweek 19 honors in the process. The attacking midfielder is up to seven assists this season, continuing a productive year for the club.
After Dynamo Dos grabbed a 1-0 lead in the first half, Gonzalez helped make sure that NTX did not get back into the match. His cross from the right wing was finished off by Gabriel Segal in the 61st minute, extending Houston's lead to 2-0.
Gonzalez's over-the-top pass just three minutes later was tucked away by Isaiah Reid for a 3-0 Dynamo Dos lead before the 21-year-old's layoff pass in the 77th minute was curled home by Segal for his second tally of the night.
Gonzalez led all players in fouls drawn (4) and chances created (4), while also winning six individual duels on the night.
Dynamo Dos will need more productive performances from Gonzalez if they want to get themselves back into the Western Conference playoff picture.
MLS NEXT Pro Rising Star of Matchweek 19: Chase Adams (Columbus Crew 2)
16-year-old Chase Adams has quickly become an important player for Columbus Crew 2 in 2024.
The substitute midfielder came off the bench and scored twice on Sunday in Crew 2's 6-1 rivalry win over FC Cincinnati 2. Adams' impactful cameo helped him earn MLS NEXT Pro's Rising Star of Matchweek 19 honor.
After entering the match in the 69th minute, Adams quickly made a positive impression. His right-footed finish off of Gibran Rayo's pass extended Crew 2's lead to 3-1 and gave the hosts some needed breathing room.
Adams' night wasn't done though as the young midfielder added to his tally five minutes later. He tucked away his second goal in the 74th minute, added further insult to FCC2.
Crew 2 would add two additional goals in the five 15 minutes, capping a memorable day at Historic Crew Stadium.
Adams now has seven goals in 11 appearances this season, becoming one of the more dangerous finishers in MLS NEXT Pro this season.
