Looking to rebound after a tough 2-0 loss to Austin FC II last week, St Louis CITY2 hikes out west this weekend for a clash against Colorado Rapids 2 at University of Denver Soccer Stadium. The match kicks off at 5:00 p.m. CT and will be streamed on mlsnextpro.com.
Although this is the first matchup between these two teams this season, CITY2 and Colorado Rapids 2 faced off twice last year. The teams drew 2-2 in their first meeting in June in Denver, CO, and then Rapids 2 edged out CITY2 2-1 when they met in St. Louis in early July.
Creating chances to score was not a problem for CITY2 in their match against Austin FC II last weekend, as the team led in corner kicks (5) and saw high-quality shots from forward Aziel Jackson and midfielder Faysal Bettache stopped by great saves from Austin’s goalkeeper. CITY2 goalkeeper Christian Olivares did his best to keep the away side in the game, putting on a clinic of top-class diving stops, but the home team eventually netted a pair of goals to continue their undefeated start to the season.
With his eight-save performance last weekend, Olivares is now tied for fifth in saves in MLS NEXT Pro (12). Midfielder Max Schneider is currently tied for 13th in interceptions in MLS NEXT Pro (8).
Colorado Rapids 2 enter the matchup a perfect 4-0-0 and atop the Western Conference table. They have outscored their opponents 10-4 on the season, and Rapids 2 midfielder Yosuke Hanya currently leads MLS NEXT Pro in goals (4). CITY2 looks to hand the home side their first loss of the season and capture their first victory.
