Colorado Rapids striker Darren Yapi is headed to Argentina. He has been named to the 21-man roster for the United States Men’s National Team for the Under-20 World Cup, the Federation announced today. He participated in the U-20 camp back in January and played in multiple friendlies during the international window back in March. He also represented the United States at the U-17 level.
The 18-year-old has gotten on the radar in 2023. He did well with Rapids 2 in MLS NEXT Pro in 2022, breaking into the first team at the end of last season. He made his first start in MLS on Decision Day last year. Yapi has played in all but one game this season, all competitions. He’s started five league games, recording one assist. He has yet to score his first goal for the first team.
Earlier this week, I spoke to Darren Yapi about his hype train, what he needs to improve on, USMNT U-20s, and the sideline entourage of accountability that's keeping him grounded:https://t.co/iNeauM3NEspic.twitter.com/gZQYN7KSkw
The Green Valley Ranch, Colo. native was not in the squad for the Rapids’ midweek Open Cup game, having already left for national team camp, per a club source.
Yapi’s main competition at the No. 9 position will be Philadelphia Union Homegrown Quinn Sullivan. Head Coach Mikey Varas is likely rotate the squad a bit so most players get minutes through the group stage. Yapi is likely to start at least one of three group stage games. Kevin Paredes could be the talismans for the attack. Darren Yapi should get service and chances and will be expected to convert, even though other U-20 stars will not be there to assist.
“We’re really excited for this group to compete against the world’s best in Argentina,” said Varas. “To represent your country at a World Cup is a tremendous honor. We embrace the responsibility that comes with this opportunity. This group has put in so much hard work since the cycle kicked off to get to this point, and we will give everything on and off the field for our country. We’re very appreciative of the cooperation we’ve had from clubs, both at home and abroad, to release their players and let them shine on this global stage.”
The United States are in Group B alongside Ecuador, Fiji, and Slovakia. Given the top four third place teams also advance to the knockout stage, the U.S. should be expected to advance from the group stage. They open the competition on Saturday May 20 against Ecuador. All three group stage games will be at 12 Noon Mountain Time.
Photo Credit: John Babiak.
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[…] of the numerous MLS clubs to be impacted by the U-20 World Cup, as midfielder Diego Luna will join Darren Yapi and the USA squad in Argentina. The 19 year old has only appeared five times as a substitute this season however, so it’s much […]
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Brendan Ploen 
[…] Darren Yapi was also called up to the USA U-20 squad for the World Cup, and will not be available. […]
[…] inserted Rapids’ fan-favorite Darren Yapi in the 65th minute. It was the fourth appearance for the youngster who hails from […]
[…] of the numerous MLS clubs to be impacted by the U-20 World Cup, as midfielder Diego Luna will join Darren Yapi and the USA squad in Argentina. The 19 year old has only appeared five times as a substitute this season however, so it’s much […]