Sports
LAFC Faces Colorado Rapids Missing Key Players
Commerce City, Colorado – LAFC will be without several key players as they prepare for a crucial match against the Colorado Rapids on Saturday.
According to the Kaiser Permanente Player Status Report, Adam Saldaña, Lorenzo Dellavalle, Aaron Long, and Igor Jesus will all be unavailable due to injuries. Long and Jesus both have season-ending injuries, while Saldaña and Dellavalle are struggling with leg injuries.
This match marks the final contest of the 2025 regular season for both clubs. LAFC currently sits in third place in the Western Conference with a record of 17 wins, 8 losses, and 8 draws, totaling 59 points. They could secure the second seed with a win and a San Diego loss or draw.
Head coach Steve Cherundolo emphasized the challenge of facing the Rapids, describing them as “a tough team to beat.” He noted the importance of staying disciplined and connected as they aim for a win in Colorado.
“If we can stick to our game plan, then I like our chances of winning there,” Cherundolo said.
On a brighter note for LAFC, international stars Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-Min are expected to be available after their recent duties with their national teams. Both players have been critical to LAFC’s success this season, scoring a combined 18 goals prior to their departures.
The Rapids, meanwhile, are looking to improve their playoff chances. They currently sit in 10th place with a record of 11 wins, 15 losses, and 7 draws. They need a win against LAFC, along with favorable outcomes from other matches, to avoid missing the playoffs.
Colorado has been struggling, winning just one of their last six matches. Despite this, they lead the club in scoring with 42 goals this season, although they have conceded 54.
LAFC’s last meeting with the Rapids resulted in a 3-0 victory for the Black & Gold, where they took advantage of a red card issued early in the match to the Rapids.
As LAFC prepares for their playoff push, maintaining their road form and defensive discipline will be critical against a determined Rapids team.
