In a commanding display during Week 20, Colorado Rapids faced off against Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, securing a decisive victory with a score of 3-0. The home team opened the scoreboard early, with Calvin Harris netting the first goal just 11 minutes into the game. Following that, on the 29th minute of the first half, Rafael Navarro doubled the lead with another well-executed goal, and Andreas Maxso sealed the match with a third goal in the 58th minute of the second half.
The first remarkable play came from the Rapids in the 11th minute when Calvin Harris scored with a powerful shot to the left post after receiving a precise pass from Djordje Mihailovic.
Rafael Navarro was given a chance to increase the lead by taking a penalty in the 47th minute but unfortunately missed the opportunity.
Andreas Maxso was named the man of the match, showcasing his talent not only by scoring but also by making 8 crucial clearances defensively.
Additionally, Djordje Mihailovic was instrumental, contributing with 3 accurate passes throughout the match.
Colorado Rapids’ coach, Chris Armas, implemented a 4-5-1 formation, featuring Zack Steffen in goal; Reggie Cannon, Chidozie Awaziem, Andreas Maxso, and Sam Vines in defense; Cole Bassett, Connor Ronan, Calvin Harris, Djordje Mihailovic, and Theodore Ku-Dipietro in midfield; and Rafael Navarro up front.
On the other hand, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, managed by Jesper Sorensen, lined up in a 4-3-3 formation with Yohei Takaoka guarding the net; Mathías Laborda, Bjorn Utvik, Tristan Blackmon, and Tate Johnson in defense; Ralph Priso, Sebastian Berhalter, and Jean-Claude Ngando in the midfield; and Pedro Vite, Brian White, and Emmanuel Sabbi leading the attack.
Looking ahead, Colorado Rapids will face Seattle Sounders in their next match, while Vancouver will host the Portland Timbers.
Substitutions for Colorado Rapids
76’ 2T – Cole Bassett was replaced by Joshua Atencio and Connor Ronan by Oliver Larraz.
83’ 2T – Djordje Mihailovic made way for Darren Yapi.
84’ 2T – Theodore Ku-Dipietro was substituted for Sam Bassett, while Brian White was replaced by Nelson Pierre.
86’ 2T – Rafael Navarro was taken off in favor of Kimani Stewart-Baynes.
Yellow Cards for Colorado Rapids
40’ 1T – Calvin Harris (Unsportsmanlike conduct) and 5’ 2T – Andreas Maxso (Holding an opponent to prevent progress).
Substitutions for Vancouver Whitecaps FC
45’ 2T – Jean-Claude Ngando was substituted for Édier Ocampo.
64’ 2T – Emmanuel Sabbi was taken off for Daniel Rios and Ralph Priso for Jeevan Badwal.
72’ 2T – Bjorn Utvik was replaced by Ranko Veselinovic.
Yellow Card for Vancouver Whitecaps FC
27’ 1T – Emmanuel Sabbi (Repeated fouls).