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Colorado Rapids Vs Orlando City: 3 things we learned – Late heroics part 2

By Hilario Muniz

COMMERCE CITY, CO - AUGUST 10: Diego Rubio #7 of the Colorado Rapids, center, celebrates after scoring during the second half against the San Jose Earthquakes at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on August 10, 2019 in Commerce City, Colorado. (Photo by Timothy Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
COMMERCE CITY, CO - AUGUST 10: Diego Rubio #7 of the Colorado Rapids, center, celebrates after scoring during the second half against the San Jose Earthquakes at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on August 10, 2019 in Commerce City, Colorado. (Photo by Timothy Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – FEBRUARY 29: Younes Namli #21 of the Colorado Rapids on the move during a game between Colorado Rapids and D.C. United at Audi Field on February 29, 2020 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tony Quinn/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – FEBRUARY 29: Younes Namli #21 of the Colorado Rapids on the move during a game between Colorado Rapids and D.C. United at Audi Field on February 29, 2020 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tony Quinn/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /

1. Welcome to MLS, Younes Namli

The Colorado Rapids lone Designated Player came to MLS in February with a reputation of being a playmaker with the ability to assist others and score goals himself. But after a season opener against D.C. United that only showed glimpses of his game and ultimately saw him subbed out in the 64th minute without a goal or assist, fans were left wanting more.

Younes Namli was still subbed out on Saturday, this time in the 72nd minute, but eight minutes before, he scored the first goal of his MLS career, giving the fans a glimpse of what he is capable of. His quick turn after receiving the ball from Keegan Rosenberry helped separate him just enough to get by three defenders. He then got his shot off right between two Orlando City defenders and right past the Lions goalkeeper, Pedro Gallese.

With some players signed to designated player contracts around the league underperforming for their respective clubs, having Namli get his first goal in just his second match of the season was just what Rapids fans needed. If the Rapids are to be a threat at the sharp end of MLS this season, Namli will be central to their play, just as he was here.

Next. Portland Timbers Vs Nashville SC: 5 things we learned. dark

It has been an excellent start to the 2020 season for the Colorado Rapids. Their performance could still use a little fine-tuning, but it’s hard to complain about a 2-0-0 record. And if Namli starts firing, this encouraging start could continue for a while yet.

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