Rapids fall to MLS rival Portland in Leagues Cup opener

Colorado Rapids (0-1-0, 0 pts.) fell in their first game of the 2024 Leagues Cup group stage against Portland Timbers (2-0-0, 6 pts.) at Providence Park. Goals from Antony, David Ayala, Santiago Moreno and Mason Toye led to a 4-0 home victory.

On a warm night in Oregon, the Rapids kicked off their 2024 Leagues Cup campaign against a familiar opponent, the Timbers, at Providence Park. With Portland completing its group stage matches and Colorado playing its first, there was plenty at stake for both teams as they looked to boost their chances of advancing to the knockout stage of the tournament.

The match started with action at both ends, as the clubs traded quality scoring opportunities in front of goal. Colorado maintained consistent service in the box, but failed to break the ice early on. The first goal of the match would come from the home side in the closing stages of the first half.

In the 30th minute, a Portland cross found the head of Felipe Mora, who headed it towards Antony for a shot to take the lead.

The Rapids continued to knock on the door as the first half drew to a close, but were unable to find an equaliser before the break.

Colorado continued to press in the second half, but the rival would double its advantage after seven minutes.

Following a corner kick, Christhian Paredes headed the ball wide of the goal to allow Ayala to score Portland’s second goal of the match.

The home side doubled their lead in the 69th minute through Toye, who fired a shot into the top corner from the centre of the area.

The Timbers scored their fourth goal in the 71st minute. A breakaway led by Moreno ended with the midfielder’s shot off the far post that sealed the match.

The Rapids will shift their focus to Monday, August 5, when they face Club León at DICK’S Sporting Goods Park for their final Leagues Cup group stage match. The winner of the match, either in regulation or a penalty shootout, will determine who advances to the knockout stage. Kickoff at DICK’S Sporting Goods Park is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Mountain Time. (Apple TV—MLS Season Pass, Altitude Sports Radio 950AM).