Galaxy of LA vs Colorado Rapids: Cobb and Holding, Praiseworthy New Additions, According to Steffen

Colorado Rapids and LA Galaxy Prepare for Clash

The Colorado Rapids and LA Galaxy are set to face off in an intriguing MLS matchup. Both teams have been making headlines for different reasons, with the Rapids looking to extend their winning streak and the Galaxy aiming to regain their form.

The Rapids have been in good form lately, having won back-to-back league matches. This is their third two-match winning streak of the season, and they will be hoping to make it three in a row. According to Opta, the probability of a win for Colorado is 25.7%.

Rafael Navarro, the Rapids' most prolific player this season, will be a key figure for the home team. Navarro has scored 26 goals over the last two seasons, more than any other player in the Rapids' history in a two-season span. He currently leads the team with 11 goals and 4 assists.

The Rapids have also strengthened their defense with the addition of Rob Holding, a free agent from Crystal Palace. Holding has obtained his visa and is available for selection. Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Zack Steffen considers Holding and Noah Cobb, on loan from Atlanta United, as "amazing additions" to the team. Steffen believes these two new defensive signings can help the Rapids be more competitive in the league.

Cobb has already played 90 minutes in the Rapids' wins over Minnesota United and Atlanta United. His presence in the defense is expected to provide stability and solidity, which could be crucial in the upcoming match against LA Galaxy.

LA Galaxy, on the other hand, have had a disappointing season so far. They have lost 16 matches this season, more than any team the year after winning the MLS Cup, except D.C. United in 2000 and Toronto FC in 2018. The Galaxy's struggles in the league continued with a 3-1 defeat to Inter Miami and a 4-0 loss to the Seattle Sounders.

However, LA Galaxy gained some momentum in their last match after defeating Pachuca in the Leagues Cup to reach the semi-final of the competition. Joseph Paintsil is a player to watch for the Galaxy, having shown promising performances in their recent matches.

According to Opta, the probability of a draw between the two teams is 25.8%. However, the Rapids snapped a five-match winless run against LA Galaxy with a 2-0 victory in June. Colorado Rapids have defeated LA Galaxy multiple times in a single season only once since 2017, winning both meetings in the 2019 season.

Paxten Aaronson is expected to become an important player for the Rapids due to his dynamic and creative midfield presence, European experience, and status as a young, hungry talent around whom the team wants to build. He was acquired for a club-record fee from Eintracht Frankfurt and replaces Djordje Mihailovic, who was transferred to Toronto FC.

The Colorado Rapids are currently seventh in the Western Conference, while LA Galaxy are at the bottom of the table. This match could be a crucial one for both teams, with the Rapids aiming to move up the table and the Galaxy looking to get their season back on track.