Oct 24, 2024 - Sports

Colorado Rapids make playoff debut as underdogs

Esteban L. Hernandez

Three men embrace while wearing light blue soccer uniforms. — Colorado Rapids players (from left) Oliver Larraz, Calvin Harris and Rafael Navarro celebrate a goal against the San Jose Earthquakes on April 13. Photo by Lyndsay Radnedge/ISI Photos/Getty Images

A resurgent season for the Colorado Rapids has come to a head: Win or go home.

The big picture: The Rapids travel to Carson, California, on Saturday to play the L.A. Galaxy in the opening round of the MLS Cup Playoffs. It's a best-of-three series that will see its second game played in Commerce City next week.

State of play: Colorado exceeded expectations this year by securing a playoff spot and making a memorable run in the intentional Leagues Cup tournament.

Yes, but: Colorado is 0-2 against the Galaxy this season.

Context: The Rapids are underdogs against the L.A. Galaxy, a team with a championship pedigree, a talented roster and the ability to score, netting 69 goals during the regular season to lead the Western Conference.

Between the lines: Brazilian forward Rafael Navarro had a breakout year with the Pids, with 15 goals and four assists — making him the team's top scorer. He is expected to be a top offensive threat against LA.

Meanwhile, midfielder Djordje Mihailovic will try to bounce back from an ankle sprain, and goalkeeper Zack Steffen similarly returns to the team after an injury sidelined him from international duty.

What's next: Saturday's game starts at 9pm on Apple TV's MLS Season Pass.

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Colorado Rapids make playoff debut as underdogs

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