Preview — The show goes on. A phrase often used in show business now applies to the Colorado Rapids, as they host LAFC in midweek madness. After a recent COVID-19 outbreak, the Rapids received the green light to go ahead with Wednesday’s match. However, out of an abundance of caution, the plan for fans to be able to attend the match has seen a delay.
Colorado Rapids Host LAFC in Midweek Match-Up
While there is plenty to get distracted by off the pitch, LAFC will fly into Colorado looking to win a second straight match for the first time all season. However, the Rapids look to solidify themselves in the postseason picture, and a win goes a long way towards that.
Colorado Rapids
While nothing about this year for MLS teams has been normal, it has to be especially rough for the Rapids. While Nashville and FC Dallas faced minor outbreaks prior to the MLS is Back tournament, Colorado have had to face something entirely different. A full-on outbreak, in the middle the season, affecting staff and players. Thankfully, things seem to have gotten back under control, without any further spread throughout the league.
On the pitch, the Rapids look to clear themselves from the bottom of the playoff picture. Currently in the eighth place, the final playoff spot, Colorado look to continue their wining ways against California sides. In fact, the last California side to beat Colorado was LAFC in October 2019. Normally an extra week off is a positive. However, it is doubtful the Rapids got much rest recently.
Update: We have taken the decision to delay the return of fans to the stadium out of an abundance of caution. This will impact the two upcoming home matches on 10/7 and 10/10.
More information ⤵️
— Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) October 5, 2020
LAFC
As mentioned prior, Los Angeles has yet to see back-to-back wins this year. After their first road win just days ago, LAFC look to continue the trend and continue finding some consistency. However, things won’t be easy for the black and gold, as now they are missing even more as international duty begins. Jose Cifuentes, Diego Palacios, Brian Rodriguez and Diego Rossi are all away with their respective countries. This puts LAFC at distance disadvantage with Carlos Vela still out injured, and Adama Diomande no longer with the team.
Perhaps in a move to strengthen depth, LAFC announced the signing of 19-year-old forward Kwadwo “Mahala” Opoku. The youngster from Ghana spent preseason — way back in February — with the club, and has since remained stateside throughout the pandemic. As a player who already knows the club and the system, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him feature in the upcoming matches.
Former LAFC midfielder Steven Beitashour, recently signed by the Rapids, will likely see action against his old side. He has already begun helping his new side, according to Colorado Rapids had coach Robin Fraser.
Fraser told media that he had conversations with Beitashour about his time with LAFC, specifically his perspective on scouting them ahead of tomorrow.
Welcome to the Club, @Mahala_jnr. @AttramDe ➡️ #LAFC pic.twitter.com/dDVX4sDHrY
— LAFC (@LAFC) October 6, 2020
Last Word
Both sides need this win. For Colorado, they will be hoping to overcome what has been one of the toughest weeks they’ve had to endure as a team. In addition, they will want to improve on their eighth place position, and keep their command over California.
For LAFC, a second consecutive win would go a long way in finding that consistency they so desperately need. A win over decent Rapids side, with a depleted squad, will go a long way in showing the squad they still have a chance to not only reach the postseason, but achieve the lofty goals they have set for themselves.
Prediction for tomorrow, Rapids 1, LAFC 2.
