Sporting KC Vs Colorado: 3 things to watch for – Battle of the playmakers
By Nathan Dunn
2. Offensive power faces off
In the opening two weeks of the season, both sides displayed glimpses of how deadly they can be in attack. Sporting KC enter with plenty of offensive options, led by new signing, Alan Pulido. The Rapids, meanwhile, feature former Sporting Kansas City star, Kei Kamara, who is a renowned goalscorer at the MLS level.
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The Rapids have a greater threat from set-pieces. They have exploited this advantage under Robin Fraser, stretching back to the back end of the 2019 season, largely thanks to the delivery of Jack Price. In 2019, the Rapids scored 17 goals from set-pieces last season, more than any other team in the league.
In open play, however, Sporting KC have a more dynamic attack. With Pulido’s flexibility and work-rate, he draws out defenders and opens up space for other runs to be made. This was on full display throughout SKC’s loss to Minnesota.
He drops into midfield, he drifts wide, he runs in behind. His relentless movement off the ball allows the likes of Gadi Kinda, Khiry Shelton and Johnny Russell to rotate through their positions and cause problems for the opposition. These, then, are two of the best offensive teams in the division. Which will get the better on Friday?