Toluca vs Colorado Rapids Prediction: Toluca is expected to edge out Colorado Rapids in a closely contested match with a predicted score of 3-2.
The Leagues Cup Round of 16 heats up as Mexican side Toluca hosts MLS outfit Colorado Rapids at Estadio Nemesio Diez on August 14, 2024. This knockout clash promises an intriguing battle between two teams looking to advance in the competition.
Match Details
Date: August 14, 2024 Time: 02:00 UTC (9:00 PM ET, August 13)
Venue: Estadio Nemesio Diez, Toluca, Mexico
Competition: Leagues Cup, Round of 16
Match Preview
This encounter sets up an interesting clash of styles between Toluca’s attacking flair and Colorado’s resilient approach. Toluca has been prolific in front of goal, netting seven times in their three Leagues Cup matches so far. Their home advantage at the Estadio Nemesio Diez, coupled with their recent form, makes them slight favorites.
However, Colorado Rapids shouldn’t be underestimated. They’ve shown great character to overcome an early setback in the competition and secure back-to-back wins. Their 3-2 victory over Juarez demonstrated their ability to compete with Liga MX opposition.
Predicted Toluca vs Colorado Rapids Lineups and Team News
Toluca
Toluca enters this match in fine form, having gone unbeaten in their last seven matches across all competitions. Manager Renato Paiva has his squad firing on all cylinders.
Predicted Toluca Lineup (4-3-3): Volpi; Mendez, Caprizo, Luan, Gallardo; Ruiz, Baeza, Angulo; Paulinho, Araujo, Vega.
Key Player: Jesus Angulo – The midfielder has been in red-hot form, scoring in his last three matches. His ability to find the back of the net from midfield could be crucial for Toluca.
Colorado Rapids
The Rapids have shown resilience in the Leagues Cup, bouncing back from an opening loss to secure two straight wins. Coach Chris Armas will be looking to continue this momentum.
Predicted Colorado Rapids Lineup (4-2-3-1): Steffen; Vines, Abubakar, Maxso, Rosenberry; Bassett, Ronan; Lewis, Mihailovic, Harris; Navarro
Key Player: Djordje Mihailovic – The midfielder scored last time out against Juarez and has been instrumental in creating chances for the Rapids.
Injury News and Unavailable Players
Toluca
Wanderson
Status: Out
Reason: Undisclosed injury
Expected Return: Unknown
Ivan Lopez
Status: Doubtful
Reason: Fitness concerns
Note: May be available off the bench
Colorado Rapids
Daniel Chacon Salas
Status: Out
Reason: Knee injury
Expected Return: Late August
Max
Status: Questionable
Reason: Hamstring strain
Note: Late fitness test required
Cole Bassett
Status: Doubtful
Reason: Ankle sprain
Note: Game-time decision
Jack Price
Status: Out
Reason: Long-term Achilles injury
Expected Return: 2025 season
Key Battles
- Jesus Angulo vs Colorado’s Midfield: Angulo’s goalscoring form will be tested against the Rapids’ midfield duo of Bassett and Ronan.
- Rafael Navarro vs Toluca’s Defense: The Brazilian forward has been directly involved in three of Colorado’s four Leagues Cup goals and will look to breach Toluca’s backline.
Where to Watch Live?
Fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV in numerous countries including the USA, Mexico, Canada, and across Europe.
Toluca vs Colorado Rapids Live Streaming and TV Schedule for Other Countries
- USA: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Mexico: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Canada: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- UK: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Germany: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- France: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Spain: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Italy: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Brazil: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
- Argentina: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
Form Guide (Last 5 matches, all competitions)
Toluca: WWWDD
Colorado Rapids: WWWLW
Head-to-Head
These teams met once before in the 2023 Leagues Cup group stage, with Toluca securing a comprehensive 4-1 victory.
Who Will Win?
Given Toluca’s home advantage and recent form, they enter as favorites. However, Colorado’s resilience cannot be discounted. Expect an entertaining, high-scoring affair.
Toluca vs Colorado Rapids Prediction: Toluca 3-2 Colorado Rapids
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for a spot in the Leagues Cup quarter-finals. With attacking talent on both sides, fans can anticipate an action-packed 90 minutes at the Estadio Nemesio Diez.
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