This Saturday afternoon, the Colorado Rapids will visit Toronto FC, bringing reunions for both teams.
Recently, Toronto traded defender Kosi Thompson to Colorado, receiving up to $400,000 in General Allocation Money in return.
“Kosi’s versatility is impressive,” said Colorado coach Matt Wells. “He has played in various positions and possesses the skills we need. He excels in duels and has great defensive intensity.”
Robin Fraser, in his second year as Toronto’s coach, will play against his former team, the Rapids, whom he coached for four seasons from 2019-2023, leading them to consecutive playoff appearances in 2020 and 2021.
Both teams last played on March 21 and were off last weekend for international matches. Colorado (3-2-0, nine points) won 4-1 against Sporting Kansas City, while Toronto (2-2-1, seven points) secured a 2-1 victory at home against Columbus Crew.
“Having a rest was crucial,” Wells noted. “The players had four days off. Now it’s all about focusing on Toronto.”
Jose Cifuentes and Walker Zimmerman were the goal scorers for Toronto against Columbus.
Daniel Salloi leads Toronto with two goals and has one assist. The team has scored six goals this season, while their opponents have netted eight.
Fraser mentioned he expected the players who scored last match to do so. “Opportunities will vary, but players capable in different areas of the field surprise you. Cifuentes isn’t primarily a goal scorer, but he can strike well when in position,” he explained. “As for Walker, he seems to score headers often in this league.”
On the other hand, Colorado has scored 11 goals, ranking third in the Western Conference, while allowing only seven goals against them.
Rafael Navarro leads the Rapids with three goals and three assists, while Paxten Aaronson and Darren Yapi follow closely with two goals and two assists each.
“We’re happy to score goals,” Wells said. “We play offensively but also aim for more clean sheets. We strive for excellence in every area.”