Matt Wells emphasizes the importance of the Colorado Rapids maintaining their identity as they strive for an MLS playoff spot against the LA Galaxy.
Currently sitting seventh in the Western Conference with 36 points, the Rapids come into this match unbeaten in their last three games (1 win, 2 draws).
However, they recently let a 3-1 lead slip against the Seattle Sounders, conceding two goals in the last 15 minutes, including a stoppage-time equalizer from Caden Clark.
The Rapids have struggled away from home, failing to secure a victory in their last five road matches, with their last win occurring against Minnesota United before the World Cup break in May.
Despite the approaching end of the regular season, Wells remains steadfast in his approach, believing that Colorado has the necessary tools to secure a playoff spot.
“No special messages [regarding the playoff push],” he said. “Our focus is on winning every game.”
“For me, our process involves constant preparation for the game ahead. If we look too far into the future, we risk leaving the Galaxy match without any points.”
“We need to stay focused on our next opponent while predicting the team they’ll field both in terms of personnel and tactics.”
“We’re in a good position. It’s essential for us to play to our identity, follow our style, and execute the game plan we’ve developed.”
“As a team, we know that when we do this, success follows.”
Meanwhile, the LA Galaxy are also vying for a playoff spot and are just three points behind the Rapids in eighth place.
Greg Vanney’s team has only lost one of their last four league matches (2 wins, 1 draw) and comes off a thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Minnesota last weekend.
Shots from our W in Minnesota pic.twitter.com/PcOY1RFVn8
— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) September 20, 2026
KEY PLAYERS
LA Galaxy – Marco Reus
Marco Reus scored his 13th career regular-season goal in MLS on Saturday, marking just his second league goal away with the LA Galaxy.
His three goals this month ties for his highest total in a single calendar month for the Galaxy, matching his tally from April earlier this season.
Colorado Rapids – Morgan Whittaker
In his first career start for Colorado on Saturday, Morgan Whittaker netted two goals, becoming the second Rapids player to achieve this feat this season (Kosi Thompson – April 12).
The last Rapids player to score multiple goals in their first regular-season start was Raul Diaz Arce in 2001.
PREDICTION: LA GALAXY TO WIN
Historically, LA Galaxy has achieved 41 regular-season victories against the Rapids (including shootout wins), tying them for the most wins against any single MLS opponent (the San Jose Earthquakes share this record).
The only MLS team with more wins over one opponent in regular-season play is Columbus, with 42 against the New England Revolution.
The Galaxy managed to come back from a 2-1 deficit in the 75th minute to secure a 3-2 victory against Minnesota United last weekend. This marks the second time in eight seasons they’ve managed such a comeback after trailing from the 75th minute onward, previously doing so in March 2024 against Sporting Kansas City.
In contrast, the Rapids recently held a thrilling 3-3 draw with Seattle, marking their first outing scoring three or more goals since a dominant 6-2 victory over the Houston Dynamo in April.
Colorado hit the milestone of scoring at least three goals in three of their first seven matches in 2026 across all competitions, yet have done so only once in their last 23 encounters.
OPTA WIN PROBABILITY
LA Galaxy – 45.3%
Draw – 26.9%
Colorado Rapids – 27.8%
### Fan Take
This matchup is crucial not just for playoff positioning but also for building momentum heading into the postseason. With both teams vying for a spot, it highlights the intense competition in the league, underscoring the significance of every match as fans gear up for an exciting conclusion to the season.
Source: www.soccernews.com
