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COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The Colorado Rapids started the 2020 MLS campaign hot, earning six points from the opening two matches against D.C. United and Orlando City SC. But like the rest of MLS, their campaign came to a standstill following the league’s decision to suspend play due to COVID-19.

Rapids coach Robin Fraser reacted to the situation midweek, speaking with the Moser, Lombardi and Kane Show on Altitude Radio.

“My first reaction was: What?” Fraser said. “It really took a while for it to sink in. After the NBA suspended their season, I knew it was coming, though. At the end of the day, it makes perfect sense. As disappointed as we are to have the season be suspended, it’s obviously not a question that it had to be done. It was the right decision.”

In line with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Public Health Agency of Canada’s recommendations for containment of the COVID-19 virus, MLS has also instituted a training moratorium. 

“For us and for the league, as you can imagine, every step has been based on what has happened around the country and what CDC is saying,” Fraser explained. “The league is updating us. The players are sitting and waiting, but our sports science department is working with them on their individual programs and things they can and have to do on their own to stay as ready as possible.”

Fraser also explained all players are in-market until further notice. Colorado has seven international players on its roster.

“It’s such a difficult and strange time,” Fraser said. “For the time being it’s stay here, do what you can to stay fit and wait to see what comes next for us.”

The post Colorado Rapids coach Robin Fraser: MLS suspension ‘makes perfect sense’ appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a new guideline Sunday suggesting mass gatherings of more than 50 people be restricted for an eight-week period, which would likely extend the suspension of all sports leagues.

The goal of the mandate is to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic by limiting the amount of large events that could spur mass transmission. Restricting these types of events can also reduce the introduction of the coronavirus into new communities.

The CDC listed sporting events as a form of mass gatherings that should avoided and suggested the cancellation or postponement of any event consisting of 50 people or more for the next eight weeks. While the guideline is not a government mandate, MLS, NWSL and USL have all followed previous CDC guidelines closely, including suggestions to self-quarantine players who have traveled from outside of the country.

MLS originally suspended all matches for 30 days and paused training through Friday this week.

The NWSL canceled all preseason matches and restricted training through March 22.

Both leagues issued statements the past week expressing their willingness to adhere to the suggestions of the CDC and other government health officials.

The post CDC issues guidance on mass gatherings that could shut down MLS, NWSL and USL for 2 months appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

MLS commissioner Don Garber released a letter Sunday urging fans to practice patience and caution amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The commissioner encouraged fans to continue their support of the league throughout its 30-day hiatus.

“During this rapidly changing time, we will take every necessary precaution, and I ask you to do the same,” Garber said. “This moment in our history transcends sport. It is a time for all of us to come together and take care of each other. Your support has always meant everything to us, but never more so than now.”

Garber said the league is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Public Health Agency of Canada, along with local public health authorities, to create a plan for the coming weeks. Every game set to take place during the suspension period is expected to be rescheduled, and Garber said all previously purchased tickets for those games will be honored on the new dates.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued a similar letter to fans last week, promising the NBA would eventually resume play. The league was the first to shut down after a player tested positive for the coronavirus. To date, three NBA players have tested positive.  

Garber’s letter came three days after MLS shut down play to help slow the spread of coronavirus. MLS issued a 30-day suspension of all games on Thursday, a massive step for a league that still heavily depends on game-day revenue to support clubs. The league went on to suspend all training through the weekend to protect the health of players and staff.

Read Garber’s full letter:

A letter from @thesoccerdon regarding COVID-19

https://t.co/u9CDWhXwvB pic.twitter.com/Rzf91LGCUs

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 15, 2020

The post MLS commissioner Don Garber urges fans to ‘take every necessary precaution’ in letter appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – When Younes Namli scored the opening goal in the Colorado Rapids’ 2-1 win over Orlando City SC Saturday, he made history. Scoring after just two appearances, it marked the fastest a Rapids’ Designated Player has gotten on the scoresheet after their Colorado debut.

Colorado’s track record with Designated Players could be graded best as a “mixed bag” with names like Tim Howard, Kevin Doyle, Shkëlzen Gashi, Juan Ramirez and Gabriel Torres having graced the annals of Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Transitioning to MLS and the altitude of Colorado was always going to be a challenge, but for Namli and the Rapids, it was important their newest big name signing find success and find it early.

“I think anytime you’re a new player on a team, there’s expectations and within the community there’s expectations even around the league,” Rapids coach Robin Fraser said. “I think if you score in your second game in the league and then score in that fashion, I think you take some of that pressure off and you just get to be you.”

Namli did just that, dribbling through Orlando defenders as if it were a cone drill at training before finding the silky finish. It was a play that showed the Danish-Moroccan midfielder’s best qualities – creativity, vision and drive.

He learned those qualities growing up while watching some of his favorite players in YouTube videos and Nike’s famed “Joga Bonito” ad campaign – videos which featured famed Brazilian Ronaldinho and his national team compatriots showing off their skills.

“He was an amazing player,” said Namli. “I mean, and the fact that he always played with a smile was just amazing to watch.”

Namli has brought similar attributes to Colorado, both on and off the pitch. Aside from his goalscoring and creativity, the attacker has brought a healthy mix of professionalism and lightheartedness to the locker room. Despite being the new guy, Namli hasn’t backed down from the banter of other locker room characters like Jack Price or Kellyn Acosta.

“Who is that? Obama?” he quipped to a suit-clad Acosta trying to disrupt a media scrum surrounding him.

“En Espagnol,” he ribs to the Spanish-speaking American goalkeeper William Yarbrough while he conducts his own interview.

“He’s got a really like fun personality,” Fraser said with a grin. “And when it comes to soccer, he wants to win. He’s a very determined player. And really, he very much fits into our locker room. He’s a guy who will do whatever the team asked him to do. He works extremely hard. He’s very, very serious when it comes to winning games.”

The son of Moroccan immigrants, Namli also learned the value of hard work.

“My parents provided everything for my siblings and I,” said Namli. “I am where I am today because of them.”

With Colorado in the midst of a build towards a return to the postseason following a three-year hiatus, Namli knows his role in the project and is fully on board with achieving its goal.

“The style of play and the club’s ambition was the most important thing in making my decision [to sign],” he explained. “There’s a challenge here to compete in MLS. It was a perfect fit for me.”

History will determine whether Namli is graded in better terms than his Designated Player predecessors. Nonetheless, he’s already well on the path toward carving out a legacy for himself and his team.

“I came to compete and we have a good a good group of guys, a good squad,” Namli said. “Hopefully we’ll be able to achieve something.”

The post Younes Namli looking to carve his own Colorado Rapids legacy appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Former United States men’s national team midfielder Benny Feilhaber announced his retirement Wednesday, capping a 15-year career that included stops in the German Bundesliga, English Premier League, Danish Superliga, and Major League Soccer.

Feilhaber, 35, represented four MLS clubs from 2011-19: the New England Revolution, Sporting Kansas City, Los Angeles FC and Colorado Rapids.

He’s coming off a disappointing season with SKC, who failed to reach the playoffs in 2019 and declined Feilhaber’s contract option at the end of the campaign.

That said, in a long post on his personal Twitter account announcing his retirement, recapping his career and thanking coaches and fans, Feilhaber singled out Kansas City as a place near and dear to his heart.

“Sporting KC and [coach] Peter Vermes brought to the club where I now call home,” wrote Feilhaber, who lives in Overland Park, Kansas. “I grew as a player and a person, became a husband and father, and ultimately had the best five years of my life, on and off the field.”

Feilhaber, who recorded 41 goals and 60 assists in 262 regular season appearances, had two separate stints with SKC (2013-17 and 2019) and helped the club win the 2013 MLS Cup and 2015 and 2017 U.S. Open Cups.

His career was well-established before he came to MLS. After two years at UCLA, Feilhaber joined Hamburger SV in the Bundesliga in 2005. He moved to England’s Derby County in 2007 and remained there until 2008 before transferring to Denmark’s AGF Aarhus, where he played from 2008-11.

Feilhaber was on the squad’s periphery at Hamburger and was utilized sparingly at Derby County as well, but former U.S. men’s national team coach Bob Bradley nevertheless started giving him consistent call-ups in 2006.

Arguably Feilhaber’s most seminal moment — for both club and country — was his game-winning goal against Mexico in the 2007 Concacaf Gold Cup final.

The extratime winner arrived off a corner kick, with a wide-open Feilhaber belting a perfectly-hit volley into the back of the net past a helpless Oswaldo Sanchez in front of 50,760 at Soldier Field in Chicago.

Feilhaber was on the field for many more of the U.S.’s noteworthy and notorious moments from the last decade.

He played in the “Miracle on Grass” game when the USMNT prevailed against world powerhouse Spain, 2-0, in the semifinals of the 2009 Confederations Cup.

He was on the field for Landon Donovan’s last-second winner against Algeria at the 2010 FIFA World Cup that sent the U.S. into the knockout round.

And he played in the U.S.’s 2-1 loss to Trinidad and Tobago in October 2017, which left the Yanks out of the World Cup for the first time since 1986.

The New England Revolution acquired Feilhaber in 2011 via allocation. He struggled in Foxborough as the Revolution failed to reach the playoffs in both seasons he was with the club. New England subsequently traded Feilhaber to Kansas City for two SuperDraft picks and undisclosed amount of allocation money.

After four seasons, Kansas City traded him to Los Angeles FC in 2018 for $400,000, a move which reunited Feilhaber with Bradley.

He recorded three goals and six assists in the club’s inaugural season, but left the next winter and joined Colorado as a free agent.

Feilhaber lasted less than three months with the Rapids, who traded him back to Kansas City last May. He scored two goals in 17 appearances with SKC last season.

“I would be remiss to not add a massive thank you to all the fans I’ve had along the way,” Feilhaber added. “All the fans that loved me and all the fans that hated me, you guys played an integral part on the many emotions I’ve felt throughout this wonderful journey.

“The Cauldron, the South Stand and everyone in between…you guys cheered me on for six season in the Blue Hell and I appreciated every single minute of it. I hope to, one day soon, be leading the ‘I believe’ chant with you all.”

I love this game but running is hard. So I’m out!! pic.twitter.com/IQ03oUpFuY

— Benny Feilhaber (@b_feilhaber22) March 11, 2020

The post Benny Feilhaber announces retirement after storied 15-year career appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

If you like overreactions after Week 2 of the Major League Soccer season, then Minnesota United and Sporting Kansas City are the favorites to win MLS Cup.

While we will not go that far here, we are more than willing to hand out praise to the players on those clubs for how strong they have started. 

The Loons have reeled off two straight wins and they blitzed through the San Jose Earthquakes by scoring five goals Saturday. Sporting KC’s bounce-back season is full effect already with a pair of new acquisitions leading the charge. 

Given how well the players on both Western Conference squads have played, they have a large presence at the top of the Pro Soccer USA MLS Player Rankings. 

We have expanded the list to 20 after Week 2, which is where it will stay for the rest of the campaign. When a larger sample size is put together, we will take into account the last four appearances, with the most-recent weighing more in our decision-making. 

But for now, we are listing the players based off how they have performed in Weeks 1 and 2. 

20. Kyle Duncan, D, New York Red Bulls

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Kyle Duncan was one of a few players that starred in the New York Red Bulls’ season-opening win over FC Cincinnati. 

Duncan and the defensive unit helped Chris Armas’ side earn a point in its first road game at Real Salt Lake Saturday. 

The 22-year-old right back won three aerials, had one off-the-line clearance and made four tackles at Rio Tinto Stadium.

19. Eddie Segura, D, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 9

The final goal in the chaotic 3-3 draw between Los Angeles FC and Philadelphia was netted by Eddie Segura. 

The LAFC center back completed a 23-minute sequence in which four goals were scored, two by each side. 

IT'S 3-3!!!

Eddie Segura slams home for @LAFC, and we've still got another quarter of an hour to go. pic.twitter.com/BmSa4lFTVA

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 9, 2020

While it was not the best defensive performance from LAFC, there was also little the Black-and-Gold defenders could do to keep out the golazos netted by Sergio Santos and Jakob Glesnes. 

18. Thiago Santos, M, FC Dallas

Previous Ranking: 8

FC Dallas midfielder Thiago Santos (5) trips while battling with Philadelphia Union midfielder Brenden Aaronson (22) Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Frisco, Texas. (Ryan Michalesko/The Dallas Morning News via AP)

One of the key figures on a predominantly young FC Dallas squad could be a 30-year-old Brazilian defensive midfielder. 

Thiago Santos was the most active FC Dallas player on the ball in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with the Montreal Impact, as he made 108 touches. 

Defensively, he made three tackles, a clearance and an interception and disrupted parts of Montreal’s attacking development. 

If he continues to play well, it may open up more freedom for players like Tanner Tessmann and Paxton Pomykal to attack with a safety blanket behind them. 

17. Ifunanyachi Achara, F, Toronto FC

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

The most surprising star of the first two weeks is Ifunanyachi Achara. 

The 25th overall pick in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft scored the lone goal in Toronto FC’s 1-0 win over New York City FC. He also had a goal taken back by VAR. 

Have yourself a night, rook!@AcharaIfy10 | #TFCLive pic.twitter.com/ZQ3mYpnfDf

— Toronto FC (@TorontoFC) March 7, 2020

The 22-year-old appears to be the gem found in the deeper part of the SuperDraft, which has not produced enough talent in previous years compared to past seasons because of the emergence of Homegrown players. 

16. Jack Price, M, Colorado Rapids

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

While you have been busy fawning over Minnesota and Sporting KC, the Colorado Rapids racked up a pair of wins to begin the season as well.

Jack Price has dished out a pair of assists in the opening stretch for Robin Fraser’s side that pulled off wins over Orlando City and D.C. United. 

There is a chance the Rapids continue their strong start since they face the Vancouver Whitecaps and Houston Dynamo in the next two games.

15. Emerson Hyndman, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Emerson Hyndman has gone from cast-off loan player at Bournemouth to a contributing midfield piece for Atlanta United. 

goals in games for @emersonhyndman!

That's a 2-0 lead for the hosts. #ATLvCIN pic.twitter.com/K590CgfwEf

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 8, 2020

Part of that evolution has to do with the quality around, but the American midfielder deserves credit for winning a spot and scoring in each of the first two weeks. 

With Josef Martinez out for the season, the Five Stripes will need a handful of players to chip in with goals to fill the void left by the Venezuelan. 

14. Michael Barrios, M, FC Dallas

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

An argument can be made that Michael Barrios is one of the most overlooked midfielders in MLS. 

The 28-year-old Colombian has not been credited with a goal or assist yet, but he has been involved in many of FC Dallas’ attacking buildups. 

In Saturday’s draw with the Impact, he dished out six key passes, which came after he handed out a pair of key assists in the Week 1 win over Philadelphia. 

13. Ali Adnan, D, Vancouver Whitecaps

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Speaking of overlooked players, Ali Adnan may top that list at the moment. 

Few outside observes have paid attention to the Whitecaps under Marc Dos Santos because of their poor form, but the full back has been one of the few bright spots. 

Raposo Adnan Ricketts BACK OF THE NET!!!!!

LA 0-1 VAN | #VWFC pic.twitter.com/YwKjIZo2G4

— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) March 8, 2020

On Saturday, the 26-year-old provided an assist on Tosaint Ricketts’ game-winner against the LA Galaxy, and he was part of a unit that allowed a single shot on goal to the Chicharito-led Galaxy attack. 

12. Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez has been the opposite of overlooked since he arrived in Georgia. 

The pressure has been on Martinez to thrive because of the hefty price Atlanta United spent to acquire him. 

The 26-year-old handed out two assists in Atlanta’s 2-1 win over FC Cincinnati, which marked the first time he played without Josef Martinez. 

Of course, there will be much more difficult games ahead where the top striker will be missed, but Saturday was a good step in the right direction.

11. Andre Blake, GK, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Typically, we do not like to reward goalkeepers who conceded on three occasions, but Andre Blake is the exception to that. 

The Jamaican netminder made eight saves to preserve the Union’s 3-3 draw at Banc of California Stadium. 

Blake did all of this with a growing bruise on his forehand from a collision early in the first half. 

He made plenty of important denials, but the most crucial one came in the final minutes of the contest to make sure the Union left southern California with their first point. 

10. Ezequiel Barco, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Ezequiel Barco might end up as the biggest beneficiary to Martinez’s long-term injury. 

The opportunities to score will come in bunches for the Argentinian, who has found the back of the net in each of Atlanta’s league contests. 

But his scoring run might end in Week 3 against Sporting Kansas City, a match that comes three days after a trip to Estadio Azteca to play Club America in the Concacaf Champions League quarterfinals. 

9. Zdenek Ondrasek, F, FC Dallas

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

The man nicknamed Kobra has been lethal in front of goal for FC Dallas in 2020.

Zdenek Ondrasek is one of a few players to score in each of the first two weeks, and he provided an assist on the other FC Dallas goal Saturday. 

BIG goal from Kobra!

Keep fighting boys!#DTID | #SomosFCD pic.twitter.com/BGXRXyGCFg

— FC Dallas (@FCDallas) March 7, 2020

Since Aug. 17, 2019, the Czech striker has scored nine goals in 10 regular-season contests. 

8. Luis Amarilla, F, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Luis Amarilla still has a long way to go to reach the 25 goals he guaranteed when he was introduced as a Minnesota United player. 

¡Se vuelve a encontrar con el gol Luis Amarilla!#SJvMIN | 1-3 pic.twitter.com/7Yw6tN3oJk

— MLS Español (@MLSes) March 8, 2020

But the 24-year-old is off to a great start in attaining that total, as he scored once in each of Minnesota’s two wins. 

Amarilla, who also contributed an assist Saturday, is one of three Loons with multiple tallies. 

7. Jordan Morris, F, Seattle Sounders

Previous Ranking: 1

Jordan Morris celebrates after scoring a goal (Credit- Charis Wilson / Sounders FC Communications)

Jordan Morris was the top performer from Week 1 by scoring two goals in the Seattle Sounders’ opener. 

He was not as successful in front of goal against the Columbus Crew Saturday, as he failed to put any of his three shots on target.

Despite the lack of goals in Week 2, Morris looks like one of the most promising forwards in MLS once again, which is a promising sign for the U.S. men’s national team.

6. Gadi Kinda, M, Sporting Kansas City

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Sporting KC manager Peter Vermes has excelled in the past at bringing in lesser-known players to thrive in his system.

#SportingKC are cruising!

Alan Pulido Gadi Kinda for 3-0 (catch that Pulido skill at the start too). #SKCvHOU pic.twitter.com/aDEZcyDJVI

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 8, 2020

Gadi Kinda fits into that category, as he has fit into the team’s system well in his first two games. 

The 25-year-old has two goals and an assist, including a tally and a handout in the 4-0 thumping of the Houston Dynamo Saturday. 

5. Jan Gregus, M, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jan Gregus was one of many Loons to boost his stat totals in Saturday’s blowout over the Earthquakes. 

The Slovakian midfielder contributed a goal and two assists in the five-goal outburst that kept them on top of the Western Conference. 

BOOM

Whatta strike from Jan Gregus! #MNUFC pic.twitter.com/vdil6nYNYy

— FOX Sports North (@fsnorth) March 8, 2020

The 29-year-old added four key passes and made a trio of tackles on the defensive end of the pitch. 

4. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 8

Carlos Vela delivered another moment of brilliance Sunday in the shootout with the Union.

SHEESH!

Carlos Vela is starting off the new season on

(via @MLS) pic.twitter.com/rzcFB8OQ8c

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) March 9, 2020

The Mexican forward curled a free kick perfectly over Blake into the left roof of the net for the first of three game-tying goals. 

Although he was not as dynamic as some of the other players on this list, Vela continues to be consistent, which is what we reward the most here. 

3. Maxi Urruti, F, Montreal Impact

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Maxi Urruti is the unlikely Golden Boot leader through two weeks. 

The former FC Dallas man netted a pair of tallies for the Impact against his old team at Toyota Stadium Saturday. 

Urruti is already one goal away from matching his season total from 2019 and he has scored in three consecutive regular-season matches dating back to last year’s finale.

2. Alan Pulido, F, Sporting Kansas City

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Alan Pulido has delivered so far up top for Sporting KC.

The Mexican No. 9 racked up his first tally in front of the home crowd at Children’s Mercy Park in the rout over Houston. 

Welcome to The Blue Hell, @alanpulido. #SKCvHOU // 1-0 pic.twitter.com/O1i8GSnFVs

— Sporting KC (@SportingKC) March 8, 2020

The 29-year-old has scored in back-to-back games and has a chance to shine even further against Atlanta United in what will be one of Week 3’s most anticipated games. 

1. Ike Opara, D, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

The reigning MLS Defender of the Year is currently in the mix for the Golden Boot as well. 

Ike Opara’s goal total may drift off in the next few weeks, but it was impressive to see what he did in the win over San Jose. 

You can't guard @ikeopara in the box. pic.twitter.com/TuPnhsNM9I

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 9, 2020

The center back banged in a pair of headers against San Jose in a dominant performance in which the Loons had a three-goal advantage going into half. 

The Loons have a chance to extend their terrific start in front of their home crowd on national television Sunday versus the New York Red Bulls. 

The post MLS Player Rankings Week 2: Loons, Sporting KC dominate the top appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

It’s taken just one week, but already there’s a shakeup at the top of the Pro Soccer USA Power Rankings.

In fact the top five spots have changed after the first two games of the 2020 season. Minnesota United FC and Atlanta United both made three-spot leaps to the top two spots after winning their second games of the year.

Sporting Kansas City, which also improved to 2-0-0 after a comprehensive victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps, moved four spots up to No. 3 followed by last week’s top two teams — Seattle Sounders and LAFC.

The Major League Soccer Power Rankings are created by averaging the rankings submitted by a committee of Pro Soccer USA’s editors and writers.

Pro Soccer USA writers Dylan Butler, Julian Cardillo, Ben Ferree, and Robert Jonas contributed to this report

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 2: Minnesota United move to top spot appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Amid the coronavirus threat, MLS has joined the NBA, MLB and NHL closing locker rooms to media.

The leagues issued a joint statement on Monday limiting pregame and postgame access in locker rooms to players and essential staff.

The statement indicated the locker room policy change was made to help thwart the spread of the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. It has spread to 13 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces so far, with testing still not widely available within the United States. 

The locker room changes will begin Tuesday morning. 

“After consultation with infectious disease and public health experts, and given the issues that can be associated with close contact in pre- and post-game settings, all team locker rooms and clubhouses will be open only to players and essential employees of teams and team facilities until further notice,” the statement read. “Media access will be maintained in designated locations outside of the locker room and clubhouse setting.”

Affects of coronavirus have already been seen throughout the soccer world, with teams in Italy initially playing in empty stadiums to avoid fans further spreading the disease. On Monday, Italian authorities shut down all sporting events, including Serie A play and Olympic qualifying competition.

MLS formed a task force last week to manage its response to the disease, communicating with governmental agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Public Health Agency of Canada. The Columbus Crew altered travel plans for the team’s match in Seattle last week, chartering flights in and out to spend as little time as possible in the city where 22 people have died so far from the virus.

Although MLS matches have yet to be closed to fans or canceled, the league will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments in the coming week.

The post MLS closes team locker rooms to media amid coronavirus concerns appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Week 2 didn’t go as well for the MLS Best Bets column as Week 1 did. Take a look at the Week 2 results below, along with who made us happy, who made us mad and where we just fell flat. And come back Friday for the best bets of Week 3.

The Week 2 bets

The post MLS Best Bets Week 2 Recap: Strong road performances lead to tough losses appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

In the team’s first home match of the season, the Colorado Rapids picked up all three points at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park as Drew Moor’s winner at the death gave the hosts a 2-1 win over Oscar Pareja and visiting Orlando City.

After Designated Player Younes Namli opened his MLS account to give Colorado a 1-0 lead in the 64th minute, regular late-game hero Chris Mueller responded with a goal of his own to draw the Lions level at 1-1 in the 82nd minute.

Eight minutes later, Moor welcomed himself back to Colorado with a headed effort off a corner kick to push the Rapids back into the lead, securing the 2-1 win.

Here are three takeaways from Colorado’s home-opening victory:

Fans get Moor

The return of Colorado’s former captain and prodigal son this past offseason was one that excited some longtime fans of the Rapids. But at age 36, there were still questions on what exactly his role would be with a team in the midst of a build and a youth movement.

Moor defied odds to earn back a starting role, and while he isn’t the same player that left Colorado in 2015, he proved why it’s a role he’s earned.

“At the beginning of preseason, every spot was open,” explained Rapids head coach Robin Fraser. “Over time, Drew had shown that his leadership, his calm and his demeanor are a positive thing for the team. He’s just been solid. He’s unspectacular and he’s unremarkable, but that’s a compliment. That’s the biggest thing about being a centerback.”

Scoring headers late was a signature for Moor during his last tenure in Colorado, but it will still take some re-adjusting to, even for the man himself.

“Hopefully I’ll score again this season and act like I’ve done it before,” he joked.

What’s in a Namli?

For the first time, Rapids fans got to see the play of newly signed designated player Younes Namli up close.

Colorado’s designated players have oft been slow to integrate into a system in Colorado and adjust to MLS, but Namli proved to be the exception on Saturday, scoring a debut goal in just his second start and first at home for the club.

Namli’s 64th minute goal showed skill and technicality as he dribbled through three Orlando defenders to put in a well struck effort, skills which he was praised for by Fraser postgame.

“I say this every week and I don’t know if anyone writes it, but there aren’t a lot of players who actually play like him,” Fraser said of Namli. “Stylistically, he’s different. His goal is an example of what makes him a little bit different. His ability to dribble and scoot by people, he’s got great timing, he can unbalance people, he’s a really close dribbler, which makes him really hard to tackle and I think his goal was an example of his best qualities. His ability to be elusive and to glide and scoot through a couple of guys and then finish.”

Other notable qualities Namli showed was his ambition, drive and desire.

“I’m a player that likes to make the play and take risks sometimes,” Namli said. “I came here to compete and to help the team get into something special. Every week we’ll be here to compete and to try to win the games.”

Vines’ continued growth

After a breakout debut campaign last season, Rapids defender Sam Vines continues to show why he deserves a starting spot in Colorado and why he’s on the radar of USMNT coaches.

Vines did well to combine with attackers on the overlap as well as find connections in the center of the park, all while completing passes at a rate of over 86 percent. His lone shot on goal was an off-target effort in the first half. But the amount of time he spent in Colorado’s attacking third, in addition to the ball skills he showed under pressure from opposition, showed Vines’ quality.

“We want him to get involved in the attack,” Moor said of his fellow defender. “He’s got a great left foot. He could’ve had a goal tonight if he didn’t kick it a mile over. But no, we want him to attack.

The post What’s in a Namli? Takeaways from Colorado’s 2-1 win over Orlando City appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – In the Colorado Rapids’ home opener, Drew Moor gave himself a homecoming party.

The veteran defender, who returned to Colorado after three seasons in Toronto, scored late in Colorado’s home opener to lift his side to a 2-1 win over Orlando City. It marked the second straight win for Colorado to open the 2020 campaign and the seventh under head coach Robin Fraser.

“Over time, Drew has shown that his leadership, his calm and his demeanor are a positive thing for the team,” Fraser said. “It was really about resiliency. It was not going to be an easy game. [Orlando] is a good team, they’re well organized. We just stuck with it.”

Both sides struggled to find offensive synchronicity in the opening half, but it was Orlando City which had the most prime opportunity of the stanza. Kyle Smith’s diagonal shot in the 19th minute went towards goal, only to be punched away from Rapids goalkeeper Clint Irwin.

Colorado outshot the visitors 9-7 in the opening half and held a slight edge with 56 percent possession, but the two sides were even in shots on target at three apiece.

“What you saw in the first half was a lot of them having possession and then us having possession,” said Fraser. “For us, it was about us trying to take advantage of those possessions more and making them unbalanced.”

Namli put Colorado in front in the second half. Dribbling through multiple Orlando defenders, he tucked in a low shot to the right corner of the goal in the 64th minute. It marked the debut MLS goal for the attacker, who joined Colorado in the preseason. 

“The players we’ve brought in have special qualities,” said Fraser. “Younes, there’s not a lot of players that play like him. Stylistically, he’s different. His goal was an example of his best qualities — to be elusive and have a great finish.”

In the 82nd minute, Orlando (0-1-1, 1 point) answered. Substitute Chris Mueller dribbled in on goal around Rapids defender Lalas Abubakar, slotting home his shot past a sliding Clint Irwin to knot the game up at 1-1.

“We just said this is how it’s going to be,” Fraser said. “We just needed to keep moving the ball quickly. It was an exercise in patience and in execution.”

Just when it seemed both sides would leave with a point, the Rapids (2-0-0, 6 points) kept fighting. Jack Price whipped in a corner which found the head of Moor, putting the Rapids back in front in the 90th minute. Colorado would see out six minutes of extra time to preserve the win.

“It starts with [goalkeeping coach] Chris Sharpe and his preparation,” Fraser explained. “On top of that, you have Jack’s great service and a group that really believes.”

The win marked the first for Colorado in six tries against Orlando City since the Lions joined MLS in 2015.

“There’s definitely room for growth,” Fraser continued.  “We’re two games into the season. But we’ll never be satisfied with where we’re at.”

Currently tied with Sporting KC and Minnesota United at the top of the Western Conference table, Colorado travels to BC Place next Saturday to face the Vancouver Whitecaps while Orlando return to Exploria Stadium to host Chicago Fire FC.

The post Drew Moor scores late winner for Colorado Rapids vs. Orlando City appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

We’re back for the second week of Pro Soccer USA’s new “Best Bets” column highlights top betting options among Major League Soccer matches. The odds are taken from MGM’s sportsbook, the official gambling partner of MLS. 

If you’re not familiar with sports gambling, the numbers may seem confusing at first. Here are some basics:

At the end of each column, we’ll have our “best bet of the week” and keep track of how our picks perform throughout the season. 

Note: Betting lines constantly change. These numbers are as of 5 p.m. ET March 5. For the latest odds on all MLS matches, visit BetMGM.

Now, onto the bets!

Colorado Rapids vs. Orlando City

The bet: Rapids -139

Colorado impressed in Week 1, getting a road win over favorites DC United. Orlando is still struggling offensively, as it opened up its season with a scoreless home draw against Real Salt Lake. Don’t expect the offense to break out this week either, as Nani will be serving the final game of his two game suspension due to an incident with a match official last season. The Rapids should keep up their momentum and get a win over the Lions.

FC Dallas vs. Montreal Impact

The bet: Dallas -189

One of the hardest things in sports betting is not overreacting from week to week results. Montreal was long seen as a bottom tier team in the East heading into the season. Yet, new manager Thierry Henry hasn’t lost a match. Two draws against Saprissa in the Concacaf Champions League was followed up by a surprise home victory against the New England Revolution. All good things must come to an end. Dallas trounced a competitive Philadelphia Union team in Week 1, and an overachieving Impact team that will be rotating players for their midweek match-up against Olimpia should prove an easier task. Opta Jack is with us on this one.

4 – FC Dallas have won all four of their home games against Montreal Impact in the MLS, scoring at least two goals in each victory – their best such 100% home record against a side in the competition history. Unblemished.

— OptaJack (@OptaJack) March 5, 2020

Atlanta United vs. FC Cincinnati

The bet: Over 3.5 goals scored +105

Anyone who watches MLS heard the major injury news of the weekend: Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez tore his ACL. Martinez is one of the most prolific goal scorers the league has ever seen, and his loss will hurt Atlanta. Just not this week. Adam Jahn will step into the striker role, but the team around him is so good the goals will continue to come. FC Cincinnati gave up the most goals in league history last season, and started off this year letting in three against a depleted New York Red Bulls side. However, Cincinnati’s offense has improved, and they put away two of their own. Atlanta may struggle to score against top teams, but Cincinnati is not yet that.

LA Galaxy vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

Best bet of the week: LA Galaxy wins by two goals or more -125

The Galaxy are a preseason favorite to win the Cup, but they are still looking for their first victory. A home opener against Vancouver is just what the doctor ordered. The Whitecaps are projected to finish last in the Western conference, and may be one of the weakest teams in the league. The Galaxy will be motivated to put on a show for their home crowd and show they have every bit as much flair as rivals LAFC. They ought to beat the Whitecaps, and do it by a pair or more.

Profit if every bet is correct this week: $310

Year-to-date record: 3-2

Year-to-date revenue/profits: $205/$5

Year-to-date best bet record: 1-0

The post MLS Best Bets Week 2: Home teams heavy favorites after a wild opening week appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Here are all your options to watch all Major League Soccer matches live in Week 2 on TV or streaming. You can follow along with Pro Soccer USA’s live scores and stats throughout the weekend as well.

Saturday, March 7

Sunday, March 8

The post How to watch MLS on TV, live stream Week 2 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The goalkeeping competition appears to be heating up in Colorado.

According multiple reports Wednesday night out of Mexico, U.S. international goalkeeper William Yarbrough will be returning stateside to sign with the Colorado Rapids, transferring from Club León of Liga MX.

While the Rapids had not confirmed the transfer as of Wednesday night, León bid an official farewell to Yarbrough on Twitter for his eight years of service with the club, specifically mentioning a move to Colorado.

William Yarbrough has announced his departure from #ClubLeón and is heading to @ColoradoRapids.

Thank you for everything, Bicampeón! @william_yarbro #LigaMXeng pic.twitter.com/3OZxMojBvC

— Club León English (@ClubLeonEN) March 4, 2020

According to TransferMarkt.com, Yarbrough holds an estimated transfer value of $1.1 million. The Denver Post reported that Yarbrough will join Colorado on a one-year loan deal.

Yarbrough, 30, won two Liga MX titles in both the Apertura and Clausura with León. He recorded 48 clean sheets in 193 matches with the Mexican side.

The 6-foot-2 native of Aguascalientes City, Mexico was raised in the country by American parents. He has three caps for the U.S. national team, but has not appeared with the national team since 2016.

Yarbrough should be expected to compete for a starting spot in Colorado with incumbent starter Clint Irwin, who is the same age.

Backup Andre Rawls and recently signed 17-year-old homegrown Abe Rodriguez — who is expected to develop with USL Championship affiliate Colorado Springs Switchbacks — round out the Rapids’ goalkeeping corps for 2020.

Irwin took over the position following Tim Howard’s retirement at the end of last season. It was a short-lived retirement as Howard, who is a minority owner at USL Championship side Memphis 901 FC, announced that he would be playing with the club on Wednesday.

The Colorado Rapids are set to host Orlando City SC this Saturday at 9 p.m. ET at Dicks Sporting Goods Park.

The post Club León announces move of U.S. keeper William Yarbrough to Colorado Rapids appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The Colorado Rapids signed midfielder Will Vint to a homegrown contract Wednesday.

Colorado acquired homegrown rights for the 18-year-old from Atlanta United in exchange for a 2022 MLS SuperDraft fourth round pick.

“Will is a promising, young talent with a high ceiling,” Rapids executive vice president and GM Pádraig Smith said in a team statement. “For him to have previously earned an opportunity with the academy of a club like Manchester United goes to show his potential and why we’re excited to have him join the Rapids.”

READ: Will Vint progressing in Atlanta after lost opportunity with Manchester United

Born in Chandler, Ariz., Vint moved to Colorado when he was three-years-old. He was a product of local youth sides Real Colorado and Pride Soccer.

A resident of Colorado Springs, Vint recently appeared for the Colorado Springs Switchbacks, scoring a goal from a free kick in the USL side’s recent 4-2 win in a preseason friendly against the University of Denver.

Vint joins goalkeeper Abe Rodriguez as the second homegrown player to sign with the Rapids this season.

The post Colorado Rapids sign midfielder Will Vint to homegrown contract appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Week 1 of the MLS regular season is in the books, which means one thing — it’s time for the first Pro Soccer USA MLS Power Rankings of the 2020 season.

There’s two new teams — Inter Miami CF and Nashville SC — and some new contributors on our end. And while it’s hard to say there’s a trend after 13 games, the first power rankings of the season is top-heavy with Western Conference teams.

Defending MLS Cup champions Seattle and Supporters’ Shield-winning LAFC, perhaps not surprisingly, sit in the coveted two top spots. Minnesota United, coming off a stunning 3-1 win at Portland, comes in at No. 3 and FC Dallas is No. 4 after knocking off the Philadelphia Union 2-0 at home.

The Major League Soccer Power Rankings are created by averaging the rankings submitted by a committee of Pro Soccer USA’s editors and writers.

Pro Soccer USA writers Dylan Butler, Julian Cardillo, Ben Ferrree, Harjeet Johal, Robert Jonas, Emily Olsen and Phil West contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 1: Seattle Sounders open 2020 season on top appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

WASHINGTON — In the brisk February air, D.C. United began the 2020 Major League Soccer season with a 2-1 loss to the Colorado Rapids in front of an announced 16,711 at Audi Field Saturday afternoon. 

A late stoppage time goal from Jonathan Lewis sealed the victory for the away team. Contrary to its 2019 defensive form down the stretch, United gave up two late goals after scoring first. United ended 2019 with five consecutive clean sheets in the regular season.

“We are not used to giving up goals,” D.C. defender Steve Birnbaum said. “Giving up two in the first game is not what we want.”

It was a tale of two halves for the home team. United started the game with its new pressing identity and built out of the back, which was effective for the first 45 minutes. 

While United shook off some preseason rust, Peruvian attacker Edison Flores and midfielder Julian Gressel meshed quickly. The two newest additions created the majority of United’s chances in the first half.

“I thought a lot of our promising attacks started through [Flores],” D.C. head coach Ben Olsen said. “He is going to be fun to watch.”

While attacker Ola Kamara handled the hold-up play inside the box, Gressel started the game centrally with Flores on the right flank. With his natural positioning out wide, Gressel moved between the center and right wing. Flores covered the space he left open. 

“We played like that in the first half,” Gressel said of Flores. “He is a left footed player on the right wing so he likes to come inside. I think I give naturally a bit more width and I like going to the right. In that way, I think that is what the coaches want.”

United’s disallowed goal in the first half came from the pairing. In the 26th minute, Gressel sent a cross in front of goal for Flores to curl behind goalkeeper Clint Irwin. Referee Nima Saghafi waved the goal offside, something that plagued United during the course of the game.

“The first half we played well. We built the game well. We turned them over in some good spots,” Olsen said. “We were a little unlucky to not get the goal in the first half.”

Although United slowed down in the second half, defender Russell Canouse was able to get the opening goal from a set piece. In the 60th minute, Gressel stepped up to the corner flag while his teammates formed a line perpendicular to goal. Canouse pulled away from the Colorado defense to find space on the back post. He headed in the opening goal.  

The Rapids were quick to equalize on a set piece of their own seven minutes later. United cleared the initial kick out of the box, but defender Drew Moor collected the ball in Colorado’s attacking third. Captain Jack Price served a long ball in front of goal for striker Kei Kamara to finish with a header past goalkeeper Bill Hamid.

“That is as good as I have seen him play in a long time. He seems pretty engaged and motivated,” Olsen said of Colorado’s Kamara. “Giving that many set pieces up to Colorado is dangerous. They are as good as any team in the league in that department.”

Colorado’s goal took the air out of United’s attack. Instead of looking for the go-ahead goal, United were hanging on to a 1-1 draw in the final minutes and ultimately conceded the game-winner in the 92nd minute. 

“We got away from building the game and there were too many transition moments where we were running back and forth,” Olsen said. “We lost the middle of the park.”

Additionally, Flores — who provided much of United’s chances — came off in the 71st minute for Yamil Asad. Due to injury and Visa finalization, Flores did not participated in all of preseason preparation and was not yet 90 minutes fit. The change was the only one Olsen made.

“A lot of it had to do with set pieces. At that point, if you look at the bench, it’s not very tall,” Olsen said. “We put the best team out there that we have for set pieces.”

After the disappointment at home, United has a quick turnaround next week when it hosts Inter Miami CF on Saturday, March 7. 

“It is the first of 34 games,” Gressel said. “There are still a lot of points to be earned.”

The post D.C. United falls to Colorado Rapids 2-1 in 2020 season opener appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Week 1 of Major League Soccer’s 2020 campaign was dominated by attackers. 

Thirty-four goals were scored over the weekend, with only five of the 26 clubs failing to find the back of the net. 

Due to the abundance of strong attacking performances, the top part of Pro Soccer USA’s first MLS Player Rankings of the 2020 season contains midfielders and forwards. 

A handful of defenders made the cut at the bottom of the list, which starts with 10 players this week and will be expanded to 20 after a larger sample size of performances. 

The player rankings will eventually take into account the last four games played, with the most-recent contest carrying the most weight. 

Consistency is the name of the game with the player rankings, but for now, we broke down the 10 best showings from opening weekend. 

10. Thiago Santos, D, FC Dallas

The FC Dallas defense was not threatened much in the 2-0 win over the Philadelphia Union.

Thiago Santos locked down the middle of the park with five clearances and three tackles. He also stopped the Union’s Jamiro Monteiro and Alejandro Bedoya from getting into a rhythm. 

As a whole, the FC Dallas defensive unit limited the Union to three shots on target in one of the three shutout victories of Week 1. 

9. Eddie Segura, D, LAFC

Inter Miami CF’s Robbie Robinson, left, shoots as Los Angeles FC’s Eddie Segura defends during the first half of an MLS soccer match Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Eddie Segura and LAFC were the final club to earn a clean sheet in a victory in Week 1. 

The reigning Supporters’ Shield champion downed Inter Miami CF 1-0 at Banc of California Stadium. Segura made seven clearances, six interceptions and won five aerial duels versus the expansion side. 

8. Carlos Vela, F, LAFC 

Carlos Vela celebrates his goal against Inter Miami CF (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Carlos Vela resided near, or at, the top of the Player Rankings for most of the 2019 season.

While we expect him to reach that position again at some point in 2020, he starts the campaign at No. 8 after scoring once against Inter Miami. 

The Mexican forward placed three of his five shots on net and distributed a pair of key passes as one of LAFC’s most active attackers. 

7. Oswaldo Alanis, D, San Jose Earthquakes

Toronto FC’s Jozy Altidore (17) battles for the ball with San Jose Earthquakes’ Oswaldo Alanis (AP Photo/Jed Jacobsohn)

Oswaldo Alanis’s debut for the San Jose Earthquakes had some ups and downs. 

The Quakes conceded twice to Toronto FC, but the 30-year-old Mexican secured a point for the home side with a game-tying goal. 

Alanis and center back partner Guram Kashia held TFC’s attack to four shots on target, but his biggest impact, at least in Week 1, was in attack to avoid an early loss at home. 

6. Cristian Pavon, M, LA Galaxy

HOUSTON, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 29: Cristian Pavon #10 of Los Angeles Galaxy is congratulated by Giancarlo Gonzalez #21 and Sebastian Lletget #17 after scoring against the Houston Dynamo (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) 

While everyone focused on the arrival of Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez to the LA Galaxy, Cristian Pavon’s return flew under the radar a bit. 

Pavon reminded us what he is capable of with a stunning goal in the 1-1 draw with the Houston Dynamo Saturday. 

The goal extended Pavon’s regular-season streak of nine games with a goal or an assist that dates back to August 25, 2019. 

5. Lucas Zelarayan, M, Columbus Crew SC

(Photo courtesy MLS via Paul-Michael Ochoa)

If Week 1 is an example of what Lucas Zelarayan will bring to the Columbus Crew, Caleb Porter’s side is in for a resurgence in the Eastern Conference. 

The Argentinian playmaker netted the lone goal in the Crew’s 1-0 win over New York City FC, which was marred by a third-minute red card to NYCFC defender Maxime Chanot.

Now the task for the 27-year-old is to follow up Sunday’s outing with a strong performance on the road at the Seattle Sounders. 

4. Florian Valot, M, New York Red Bulls

Florian Valot #22 of New York Red Bulls controls the ball in the first half against the FC Cincinnati at Red Bull Arena (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

After missing the majority of the 2019 season with an ACL injury, Florian Valot returned with a pair of assists in the New York Red Bulls‘ season opener. 

Additionally, Valot handed out three key passes and was one of the most active players on the ball with 77 touches. 

If he makes this type of impact on a season-long basis, Valot will be a key piece alongside Daniel Royer and others in the Red Bulls attack. 

3.  Ethan Finlay, M, Minnesota United

Minnesota United delivered the most shocking result of the weekend by knocking off the Portland Timbers 3-1 at Providence Park.

Loons midfielder Ethan Finlay picked up a pair of assists, which is one less than the total he earned over 33 games in 2019. 

Since joining the club midway through the 2018 season, Finlay contributed nine goals and six assists. If he contributes at a larger level in 2020, the Loons could improve on their fourth-place finish from last season. 

2. Kevin Molino, M, Minnesota United

Kevin Molino #7 and Angelo Rodriguez #9 of Minnesota United celebrate after scoring a goal during the second half against the Portland Timbers (Steve Dykes/Getty Images)

Kevin Molino is in a similar situation as Finlay.

The Trinidad and Tobago international had three goals and four assists over 17 appearances in 2019 and came out of the gates strong in 2020 with a two-goal performance in Portland. 

Molino has a knack for starting off strong, as he produced two goals in Minnesota’s opener against San Jose in 2018. 

1. Jordan Morris, F, Seattle Sounders

Jordan Morris celebrates after scoring a goal (Credit- Charis Wilson / Sounders FC Communications)

Jordan Morris followed up his 10-goal campaign in 2019 with a pair of tallies in Seattle’s win over the Chicago Fire. 

The U.S. men’s national team forward was one of the best American forwards in MLS last season, and he is looking to claim the throne of top American scorer this season. 

The two-goal performance was the fourth of his MLS career. 

The post MLS Player Rankings Week 1: Jordan Morris, Kevin Molino top chart appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. — The 2019 season was one of disappointment, followed by hope for both the Colorado Rapids and its fans.

An unsatisfactory 0-7-2 start to the campaign led to the eventual firing of then head coach Anthony Hudson. Following Hudson’s dismissal, results turned and Colorado racked up points at a league-leading pace of 1.81 points per match under interim head coach Conor Casey and permanent hire Robin Fraser, who closed out the season.

Fraser will look to finish what he started in 2019 in his first full season at the club where he started his career in MLS as a player. He’ll try to do it with some new faces including former Toronto FC Nicolas Benezet and designated player Younes Namli as well as returning fan favorite Drew Moor, among others.

Combined with the new additions, Fraser hopes the implementation of his system can lead Colorado to its first playoff appearance in three seasons. Their first test lies on the road against D.C. United.

Rapids travel to face new-look DC United at Audi Field

When: February 29, 11:00 a.m. MT, 1 p.m. ET

Where: Audi Field

Broadcast: TV — Altitude-DirecTV 681; RADIO – Altitude 92.5 FM (KKSE), 950 AM

Live stream: ESPN+

The buzz:  The 2019 season will mark the first full season under head coach Robin Fraser for the Colorado Rapids. Colorado hopes to return to the playoffs following a three-year hiatus.

Despite opening the season on the road, facing a DC United squad in transition presents an opportune challenge to gain points for the Rapids. Despite adding a top young talent in Julian Gressel, the Black & Red lost key contributors Luciano Acosta and Wayne Rooney.  

Robin Fraser surely will be under an immense amount of pressure for a first-year head coach. The Rapids’ front office has promised fans a “perennial playoff team” for the better part of three seasons now, in its now infamous “Rapids Way” editorial, but has failed to deliver.

Other key matches

March 7 vs. Orlando City SC– The wounds still run deep for Colorado Rapids fans when you bring up Oscar Pareja, who left the club in the midst of the 2014 preseason to return home to FC Dallas. This game will be important for both clubs as they look to set the tone for their respective rebuilds and hopes to make the playoffs. Weather forecasts show a low of 25 degrees for this game, so at least temperature-wise another Snow Clasico might be in play. 

April 11 & Aug. 22 at/vs. Real Salt Lake – Colorado has faltered so often in the Rocky Mountain Cup rivalry that fans on both sides and even neutrals around the league are starting to question whether this is still a real rivalry.”

Bringing the rivalry trophy back to Colorado would go a long way in starting a legacy for Robin Fraser in order to bring back a spark to this rivalry and return some good will back to the fanbase. With longtime captain Drew Moor back in the locker room, expect the locker room to once again be fired up for the RMC.

July 4 vs New York Red Bulls – The Fourth of July game is always an important one for the festivities (often a sellout due to postgame fireworks). This year’s edition will also feature a halftime ceremony retiring the No. 25 in honor of longtime captain and former head coach Pablo Mastroeni.

Aug. 9 vs. Nashville SC– The former coach of Colorado’s 2010 MLS Cup winning side, Gary Smith will make his return to as the head coach of Nashville. The club will honor Smith and the 2010 MLS Cup win as part of their celebrations of MLS’s 25th season. Nashville’s roster also features former Rapids players Dominique Badji, Eric Miller and Alan Winn.

Check out the full 2019 schedule here.

Quotes & Notes

“We’ve certainly done a lot of work in how we want to play, both offensively and defensively. My concern is to have the team be good and competitive and cohesive. When we concentrate, we’re good. We need to work on that. The more we work on that, the better we’ll be and we’ll see where that takes us.” — Robin Fraser

“It’s a team with a lot of potential, I think that’s obvious to everybody. A lot of young players, but also a lot of quality. The way the team wants to play isn’t just kick and run, they want to play football, and also entertain the fans. That’s what I like. That’s why I decided to come here.” — Younes Namli

“We have a great group of guys this year, we’re very united. It feels like we’ve picked up right where we left off.” — Andre Shinyashiki

Biggest offseason moves

• Acquired defender Lalas Abubakar permanently from Columbus Crew

• Acquired forward Nicolas Benezet from Toronto FC

• Acquired Drew Moor in free agency

• Acquired attacking Designated Player Younes Namli on loan from FC Krasnodar

• Acquired defender Auston Trusty via trade with Philadelphia

• Drafted defender Jeremy Kelly from North Carolina.

• Acquired young Designated Player Braian Galvan from Argentinian side Colon. He’s expected to join the club this summer.

• Signed homegrown goalkeeper Abe Rodriguez.

Roster breakdown

Forwards – Nicolas Benezet, 29, Jonathan Lewis, 22,Niki Jackson, 23, Kei Kamara, 34, Diego Rubio, 25, Andre Shinyashiki, 22, Matt Hundley, 19, Sam Nicholson, 25

Midfielders – Younes Namli, 25, Kellyn Acosta, 24, Cole Bassett, 19, Nicolas Mezquida, 28, Jack Price, 27,

Defenders – Drew Moor, 36, Auston Trusty, 21, Kortne Ford, 23, Keegan Rosenberry, 25, Lalas Abubakar, 25, Danny Wilson, 27, Sam Vines, 20, Deklan Wynne, 24, Robin Afamefuna, 22, Seb Anderson, 17

Goalkeepers – Clint Irwin, 30, Andre Rawls, 28, Abe Rodriguez, 17

See full roster details here.

The post Colorado Rapids 2020 preview: Can Robin Fraser pick up where he left off? appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – The Colorado Rapids have added to their goalkeeping corps Thursday, signing Abraham “Abe” Rodriguez as a homegrown player.

“Abe has been turning heads since he made his debut in the USL Championship last year as a 16-year-old,” Rapids executive vice president and GM Padraig Smith said in a team statement. “We knew how talented he was from his time in the academy and his performances at the USL level. The level of maturity he has already shown in his young professional career gives us the confidence that he has the ability to develop into a top-class goalkeeper.”

The now 17-year-old Rodriguez spent the entirety of last season with the Rapids’ USL affiliate, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks, starting 16 games with a save percentage of 59.8 percent.

Prior to landing his first professional contract, Rodriguez logged over 2,250 minutes as a member of the Rapids’ Development Academy.

The Thornton, Colo. native joins a goalkeeping corps that includes Clint Irwin, the expected No. 1 for Colorado following the retirement of Tim Howard and backup goalkeeper Andre Rawls.

Given Rodriguez’s age and standing on the depth chart, in addition to his importance to the success of Colorado Springs, it’s likely he’ll spend this season on loan with the USL side.

Colorado wraps up its preseason this Saturday with a friendly against Toronto FC (3 p.m. ET) before beginning its regular season on the road at D.C. United Feb. 29 (1 p.m. ET).

The post Colorado Rapids sign 17-year-old homegrown GK Abe Rodriguez appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.