News Summary
The Colorado Rapids achieved a 2-1 win against Minnesota United FC at Allianz Field, thanks to two goals from homegrown forward Darren Yapi. This victory boosts the Rapids’ standings in the Western Conference, aiming for a playoff spot. Both teams showed competitive spirit, but the Rapids held on after a late goal from Minnesota’s Tani Oluwaseyi. The win positions Colorado for their upcoming match against Atlanta United.
Minneapolis
The Colorado Rapids secured a 2-1 victory against Minnesota United FC at Allianz Field on Saturday, August 12, 2023. The win marks a significant achievement for the Rapids, improving their record to 9 wins, 11 losses, and 6 draws, resulting in a total of 33 points and placing them 8th in the Western Conference. Minnesota, on the other hand, sits at 3rd with a record of 12 wins, 6 losses, and 8 draws, totaling 44 points.
Darren Yapi Shines with Career Milestone
Homegrown forward Darren Yapi was the standout player for Colorado, scoring both goals for his team, achieving his first career brace in Major League Soccer (MLS). These goals were Yapi’s 5th and 6th of the season, marking a personal best in a single season.
Match Summary and Key Moments
The match began with a competitive first half that ended in a scoreless draw. Both teams struggled to capitalize on their attacking opportunities, with the Rapids’ forward Rafael Navarro instrumental in their offensive plays, even though he did not find the net in the first period. Colorado’s goalkeeper Zack Steffen played a crucial role in keeping Minnesota off the scoreboard, making several important saves.
As the second half commenced, Colorado came out with renewed energy. They focused their attacks primarily along the wings. The breakthrough came in the 60th minute when Sam Vines assisted Yapi’s first goal, marking Vines’ second assist of the season. Just ten minutes later, in the 70th minute, Yapi scored his second goal, assisted by Navarro, who recorded his third assist this season.
Late Pressure from Minnesota United
Despite the Rapids holding a comfortable two-goal lead, Minnesota United found a way back into the game when Tani Oluwaseyi scored in the 73rd minute, reducing the deficit to 2-1. This goal marked Oluwaseyi’s 10th goal of the season. However, Colorado’s defense held strong, limiting Minnesota’s ability to create additional high-quality chances in the final minutes of the match.
Looking Ahead
The victory was critical for the Rapids, who are in pursuit of a playoff spot, as the top nine teams from the Western Conference advance. The Colorado Rapids are set to return home for their next match against Atlanta United on Saturday, August 16th, at 7:30 p.m. MT. This game will be available for coverage on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, Altitude Sports Radio, La Invasora, and through the Colorado Rapids app.
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Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
