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MLS Colorado Rapids

Know Your Opponent: Minnesota United FC

October 8, 2021 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Colorado Rapids News Release


On Sunday, Oct. 10 the Rapids will take on Minnesota United FC for their second of three road matches. Kickoff is set for 2 PM at Allianz Field.

Past Matchups

This is the third meeting between Colorado and Minnesota this year after the Rapids secured wins in both previous matchups at DICK'S Sporting Goods Park. In the most recent meeting, the Burgundy Boys took a dominant 2-0 victory following goals from Braian Galván and Andre Shinyashiki. The Rapids hold a 5-3-2 all-time record over Minnesota.

Current Form

The Rapids are coming off a 3-0 defeat in Seattle in their first of three consecutive away games. The loss marked the end of Colorado's 12-game unbeaten streak and six-game road unbeaten streak, but the team is eager to begin a new run against Minnesota on Sunday. Rapids defender Lucas Esteves' red card ruling earned in the 61st minute against the Sounders has since been appealed and rescinded by the league, making the Brazilian defender available for the matchup with MNUFC.

Minnesota faced a similar challenge with red cards in its most recent match with FC Dallas, and midfielder Emanuel Reynoso's charge from the 89th minute has also been rescinded by MLS. The Loons played to a scoreless draw with Dallas in Frisco to earn one point on the road and move to 10-9-8 on the year. Minnesota currently sits in seventh place in the Western Conference.

Key Players to Watch

Minnesota will take the pitch on Sunday without its leading scorer Robin Lod, key defenders Michael Boxall and Romain Metanire, as well as Jukka Raitala and Dayne St. Clair who are all away on international duty. Midfielder Franco Fragapane is currently tied with Reynoso for most assists and could be vital in support of Minnesota's depleted attack. He also ranks second in assists per game throughout the league. Goalkeeper Tyler Miller has kept the structure of the Minnesota's back line this season, earning 10 shutouts on the season. He ranks third in shutouts in the league, behind Rapids goalkeeper William Yarbrough's 11 shutouts, which are second-most in MLS.

On the Pitch

Minnesota has defeated Colorado in all three contests between the clubs at Allianz Field.

Between both teams, eight players (Colorado 2, Minnesota 5) have been called up for international duty to take part in the World Cup Qualifiers.

Jack Price has assisted on three of the Rapids' last five goals, and is tied for third in MLS with 11 assists.

Colorado has scored 11 set piece goals this season, tied for the league lead.

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