U.S. Open Cup Starting XI & Game Preview: Colorado Rapids vs New Mexico United

Tonight, the Colorado Rapids are hosting USL side New Mexico United in the 4th round of the U.S. Open Cup (the first round MLS teams are eligible to jump in). NMU was founded just a year ago so this is the first time these teams have played each other. New Mexico United sit at the top of the USL Championship Western Conference with 25 points and a 6-7-2 record. Although they are in the USL, NMU should not be taken too lightly as they have had to go to both Phoenix Rising FC and the Colorado Springs Switchbacks in order to earn this spot against the Rapids. Both games needed extra time, one went to penalties.

It is likely that the Rapids will field a starting XI that needs minutes, as well as resting those who have had plenty. The Rapids took (more or less) a B-squad to Philadelphia and held the Union to a 1-1 draw, which should provide enough confidence to see the Burgundy Boys through.

Jack Price (hip) and Andre Shinyashiki (hamstring) are listed as questionable for this match and both Kortne Ford and Deklan Wynne are still out. One other thing to consider is that in an Open Cup game only five internationals are allowed to be on the 18 for the game. This could mean Andre Shinyashiki could sit, as could Jack Price, Tommy Smith, and Nicolas Mezquida. Internationals who haven’t had many minutes like Danny Wilson and Johan Blomberg could be called upon tonight though. Kei Kamara is currently in Athens, Greece, so don’t count on him being here, either.

Colorado are riding a five-game unbeaten streak, which gives fans hope that the Rapids will continue the streak, even if it’s a US Open Cup game.

Starting XI:

How to Watch

Match Date/Time: Wednesday, June 12th at 7:00 p.m. MT

Venue: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park – Commerce City, CO

Live Stream: ESPN+ (subscription required)

Note: ESPN owns the rights to the USOC matches, so there will be no Altitude broadcast on radio or TV.