This Saturday, Colorado Rapids host Seattle Sounders FC at DICK'S Sporting Goods Park. This might turn out to be a crucial match for both teams as it sets up the course for their positions in the MLS playoff race. The Rapids sit sixth, with Seattle occupying the third spot. A win for either outfit would change the path going into Decision Day on October 19.
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Colorado Rapids: An Opportunity to Redeem Themselves
The Colorado Rapids are looking for a rebound performance after falling 3-1 to the leaders of the Western Conference, the LA Galaxy. The lone goal for the team was courtesy of Connor Ronan, and the Rapids' undefeated streak at home snapped after 13 games. Still, Colorado features one of the better home-field advantages in the league, with 10 home wins this season, which is good for second-best in the conference behind the Galaxy.
What that means for the Colorado squad is to turn such following from the fans into positive performances on the field. With only three points separating third from sixth place, every game represents a great opportunity to jump up the table. In doing so, the team needs to come together and show it can compete at a high level, especially in such an important matchup.
Seattle Sounders: Keeping Up the Momentum
The Seattle Sounders come into this clash fresh off a convincing 3-0 win against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC. On the back of that impressive performance, they are unbeaten in five matches-a record of 4 wins and 1 draw-with a goal differential of +10 during that stretch. That shows just how strong and confident they are going into this matchup.
The Sounders seek to nail their place within the top four in the Western Conference. Both teams are aware that beating the Rapids is one of the ways to build momentum into the playoffs. With quality players and experience gained throughout the season, the team has what it takes to get a positive result.
Head-to-Head History
This will be the second time these two teams will meet this season. The first match between the two sides was in March and ended in a 1-1 score. Such history may psychologically affect the mentality of both teams, when one wants to prove themselves at home and the other prove they are among the best teams in the league.
This is a highly expected showdown since the Colorado Rapids want to get revenge after their loss at home, and the Seattle Sounders intend to keep their winning streak alive. Both teams are aware that each point could be important in the coming weeks.