The Colorado Rapids are aiming to end their three-game losing streak as they prepare to face the struggling Los Angeles Galaxy on Wednesday in Commerce City, Colorado. Currently sitting just above the playoff line in the Western Conference standings, the Rapids (6-8-4, 22 points) are returning from a 10-day hiatus after suffering two consecutive shutout losses, the most recent being a 1-0 defeat against Orlando City.
Djordje Mihailovic, with seven goals and three assists, is the leading scorer for Colorado, although he has not scored since late May. In positive news, midfielder Cole Bassett made his comeback from an ankle injury during the match against Orlando, after missing the last four games.
Head coach Chris Armas expressed optimism for the remainder of the season, emphasizing that there is still much to play for with half the season still ahead. “We have a lot to play for,” he stated. “Lots of home games are coming up, so we just have to get back to work.”
On the other hand, the Galaxy (1-12-5, 8 points) have struggled significantly this season, having experienced the longest winless streak for a defending champion, failing to secure a victory in their first 16 matches. Los Angeles managed to snap this streak with a 2-0 win over Real Salt Lake on May 31 and is now looking for momentum after a 3-3 draw against St. Louis City, which was marked by a late equalizer that dashed their hopes for a full three points.
Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney acknowledged the challenge his team is facing, highlighting the frustration that comes from not closing out games. “It definitely feels like two lost points at the end,” he commented, reflecting on the missed opportunity against St. Louis City.
As both teams look to turn their fortunes around, this matchup is critical for the Rapids to stabilize their playoff position and for the Galaxy to build on their recent improvements.