MLS Colorado Rapids

Colorado Rapids vs LAFC: Keys to the Match: October 7, 2020

Published on October 6, 2020 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Colorado Rapids News Release


Compared to 2019, this season has been a bit rocky for LAFC.

Through 15 matches in 2020, LAFC has accumulated 21 points. At the same mark in 2019, the squad had been the most prolific team the league had ever seen, with 34 points. So far this season, LAFC has surrendered 30 goals, compared to 37 all of last season. There is still a decent chunk of the schedule left, but, in 2019, LAFC walked away victorious from an opponent's stadium eight times, while they only have one road win in 2020.

There will be an autopsy after the season regardless if LAFC win any major or trophies or not. Bob Bradley and the team he's built have proven too meticulous and sharp to not attempt to diagnose what's gone wrong and go in search of a cure.

In 2019's version of this fixture, the Rapids were defensively dominant and handed LAFC one of only five shutouts they suffered on their way to Supporters' Shield glory. It was a Danny Wilson winner in the 49th minute and a breakout shutdown performance from left-back Sam Vines that made the headlines; the then-teenager had future league MVP, Carlos Vela, in his pocket all night long. This time around, it's unlikely Carlos Vela will make the trip, as he's just recently returned to training while dealing with an MCL injury to his left knee.

Can 2019's performance be recreated? Does it need to be? Here are my keys to the game for all three points Wednesday evening.

1. Atuesta awareness.

Carlos Vela was the man who created the headlines, broke the records and steadied the team in 2019. Vela has only played three games thus far in 2020, which no doubt plays a role in LA's struggles, but Vela's absence in the attack doesn't explain the defensive lapses that have led to a concession of 30 goals thus far this season. Colombian midfielder Eduard Atuesta has been in and out of the lineup while struggling for fitness, and he's my pick for the most important player to the Black and Gold. LAFC are 6-2-3 in league play with him and 1-4-0 without him. He's the shield for the backline and the first gear for the attack. The Rapids will have to know where he is every minute of the match and make his life uncomfortable. When he receives passes, suffocate him and don't give him time to turn and look upfield. Defensively, it's as simple as going where he isn't and attacking other defenders.

2. Get comfortable.

The Rapids will be coming off a two-week hiatus since the last match, a 5-0 home victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. If momentum in sports is real, there's a chance it has been lost in the time between matches. LAFC may have conceded the second-most goals in MLS, but they've scored the most: 35. Getting back into a groove, connecting passes and being able to control possession when needed is going to be imperative for Colorado on Wednesday night. LAFC haven't scored 35 goals on accident, and everybody knows they'll be coming in with a sense of urgency as they work to get back to their perch atop the Western Conference.

3. Fight fire with fire.

While LAFC is averaging 2.3 goals per game, the Rapids are clipping in a pace of 1.9 goals per game. Don't think the first or second goals scored in this match will be decisive. LAFC will flood numbers forward, create chances and Colorado will do exactly the same in return. This match should be offensive volley after offensive volley. Realistically, it could come down to who finishes their clear cut chances, and, on the defensive end, who makes a game-saving intervention. Expect fireworks, but don't be surprised if it's an unheralded routine defensive play that decides the points.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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