Two teams striving to regain momentum clash in the MLS as the Colorado Rapids host Austin FC at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park on Sunday morning.
Austin FC, known as the Verde and Black, enter this fixture eager to overcome recent setbacks, having failed to win in their last three encounters against the Rapids. They seek to bounce back from consecutive defeats and aim to turn their fortunes around against their hosts.
Colorado Rapids, meanwhile, suffered a disappointing 2-1 loss to Vancouver Whitecaps in their recent outing at BC Place. Despite Dorde Mihailovic’s goal, they were undone by a late strike from Damir Kreilach, extending their losing streak to three matches and winless run to four.
Defensively, the Rapids have struggled, conceding 13 goals in their last four games, highlighting a vulnerability that needs addressing. However, they remain formidable at home, unbeaten in four of their last five matches, including three wins.
On the other hand, Austin FC endured a heavy 5-1 defeat to Real Salt Lake, with Cristian Arango netting a hat-trick against them. This loss followed a 2-0 defeat to Portland Timbers, ending their previous unbeaten streak.
Heading into this matchup, both teams face personnel challenges. Colorado Rapids will miss Moise Bombito and Miguel Navarro due to international duty, while injuries sideline Wayne Frederick and Daniel Chacon. Austin FC will be without Julio Cascante and Dani Pereira, also on international duty, along with Ethan Finlay and possibly Sebastian Driussi due to injuries.
Expected lineups:
Colorado Rapids: Steffen; Rosenberry, Abubakar, Maxso, Travis; Ronan, Fernandez; Cabral, Mihailovic, Yapi; Bassett
Austin FC: Stuver; Gallagher, Cascante, Vaisanen, Biro; Valencia, Ring; Obrian, Rubio, Kolmanic; Zardes
Prediction:
Colorado Rapids 2-1 Austin FC
Despite recent struggles, the Rapids’ home advantage and historical edge over Austin FC suggest they will secure a narrow victory in this encounter.A
