LA Galaxy vs Colorado Rapids: Preview, Prediction, Lineup & How to Watch on TV

Here is the LA Galaxy vs. Colorado Rapids preview for this weekend's MLS fixture. It features key information such as team news, predicted lineups, and how to watch on TV.

The LA Galaxy delivered one of the most dramatic moments of the 2024 MLS season finale during their thrilling 2-1 clash against the Houston Dynamo last Saturday.

The result left the Galaxy tied on points with their city rivals, LAFC. However, due to an inferior goal difference, the Galaxy finished second in the Western Conference, an outcome that set the stage for an exciting playoff run.

With the regular season behind them, the Galaxy must shift their focus to the playoffs in 2024. They boast a strong team and must capitalize on every opportunity to convert chances into goals—something they struggled with in their recent match.

LA Galaxy vs Colorado Rapids: Preview, Prediction, Lineup & How to Watch on TV

What time does LA Galaxy vs Colorado Rapids kick-off?

LA Galaxy vs Colorado Rapids kicks off on Saturday 26th, October at 20:00 PT, 23:00 ET.

• When is the kick-off? Saturday 26th, October.
• What time is kick-off? 20:00 PT, 23:00 ET.
• Where is it played? Dignity Health Sports Park, California.

LA Galaxy news

In their final regular-season match, the Galaxy played without veteran defender Martin Caceres, who is nursing an Achilles injury.

However, they welcomed back midfielder Mark Delgado, who was eligible to return from suspension. Head coach Greg Vanney made three key changes to his starting eleven against Houston.

Julian Aude filled in at left-back for John Nelson, while Marco Reus and Edwin Cerrillo replaced Delgado and Gaston Brugman, respectively.

Riqui Puig has now been linked to a potential return to Spain, with Villarreal CF reportedly showing interest.

Predicted LA Galaxy lineup vs Colorado Rapids: McCarthy; Yamane, Yoshida, Garces, Aude; Reus, Delgado, Puig; Pec, Joveljic, Paintsil.

Colorado Rapids news

On the other side, the Colorado Rapids faced their own challenges, missing several key players due to injuries.

Darren Yapi and first-choice goalkeeper Zack Steffen were unavailable, alongside Cole Bassett, who was sidelined with a sore quad. Former Galaxy winger Kevin Cabral remained doubtful due to an elbow injury.

In their match against Austin, the Rapids saw three newcomers in their starting eleven, with Adam Beaudry stepping in for Steffen and Reggie Cannon and Omir Fernandez replacing Sam Vines and Calvin Harris.

Predicted Colorado Rapids lineup vs LA Galaxy: Steffen; Rosenberry, Abubakar, Maxso, Vines; Larraz, Ronan; Fernandez, Mihailovic, Lewis; Navarro.

Is LA Galaxy vs Colorado Rapids on TV?

In the USA, LA Galaxy vs Colorado Rapids will be televised via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.

LA Galaxy vs Colorado Rapids score prediction

While the Galaxy has secured a solid position in the standings, their inconsistency in converting scoring opportunities could pose a challenge in the playoffs.

Conversely, the Rapids are also experiencing a goal drought, which could play to the Galaxy's advantage. As the playoffs approach, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strengths and address their weaknesses.

Score prediction: LA Galaxy 1-1 Colorado Rapids.