Rapids Galaxy Leg Two Preview: Must-Win For Colorado

COMMERCE CITY – Tonight the Colorado Rapids play their first home playoff game since Thanksgiving 2021. It’s the second leg of a Best-of-Three with the LA Galaxy. The first match was the worst game in Pids postseason history. Now it’s a must-win to force a third leg next Saturday back in LA.

When: Friday, November 1 @ 7:30 p.m. MST

Where: DICK’s Sporting Goods Park, Commerce City, Colorado

TV/Streaming: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV

There’s less nuance to talk about with this game given the state of the series. The Rapids need to win, either in 90 minutes or the PK shootout that would immediately follow if we’re tied after 90 minutes. Colorado’s played three games against the Galaxy this year. It’s been three losses and the combined aggregate score is 11-3. They need their best performance of the year against this team tonight to get a result.

It’s worth pointing out Colorado hasn’t been healthy for these matchups. Djordje Mihalović and Cole Bassett each played only one of the regular season games. Neither played in the playoff game last week. Both are questionable going into tonight. Their availability could determine how competitive this match is.

The team pressed well in the opening 30 minutes last game. It made the Gs uncomfortable at times but did not lead to any offense. Colorado needs to challenge the Galaxy backline, especially on transition and on set pieces. They need to be sharper with the ball.

This is an interesting series in that both team’s offensive strength plays to the opponent’s defensive weakness. The Killer Ps of Puig, Pec, and Paintsil will be happy to sit back, wait for the Rapids to turn it over, and go at their defense with a numerical advantage. That’s been an Achilles’ Heel for Colorado. They need to somehow do a better job defending that and be a threat in the attack.

If the performance improves, if Bassett and Mihalović play over 100 minutes total, and the Galaxy play a bit casual, they’ve got a chance. If not, their season will end on a six game losing streak. It will be a sour end to what has otherwise been an amazing season. Colorado’s raised their floor in 2024. It remains to be seen whether their ceiling is above a first round playoff exit.

Photo Credit: Mark Shaiken

Thank you for reading Burgundy Wave. Support us via our Patreon starting at $5/month. We’re always looking for new talent. Let us know if you’re interested in covering Colorado Soccer.