Slumping Colorado Rapids set to host former manager, Orlando City

The Colorado Rapids hope for a better result in their second of three consecutive home games on Saturday night when they host an Orlando City side managed by one-time Rapids boss Oscar Pareja.

Both Colorado and Orlando (7-4-6, 27 points) have lost consecutive games, with the Rapids (6-7-4, 22 points) dropping five of their last seven despite a less-crowded itinerary in May than some clubs.

But with a more forgiving Western Conference that sees the Rapids still sitting ninth and just above the playoff line -- and the return of influential midfielder Cole Bassett from injury -- manager Chris Armas insists the mood and focus remain positive.

"Frustration, disappointment, that's an emotion that's short-lived around here," Armas said. "With half a season to play, there's so much to play for as we find ourselves in the middle of the table. So we're using all of our energies for our excitement toward another home game."

Bassett's presence has often correlated with Colorado's well-being. A 2024 injury brought his season to an end on Sept. 21, and the Rapids followed by losing their last six, including a pair of playoff matches in their first-round series defeat to the LA Galaxy.

Orlando has also lost two in a row but had a better May overall under Pareja, who held his first MLS post with the Rapids from 2012 to 2014.

He's lost once and drawn once in his two previous visits to Colorado with the Lions -- and also managed there annually while in charge of Western Conference foes FC Dallas.

"I have great memories in a place that, the people, the fans, all of them treat me very well," Pareja said. "But now my love is for Orlando, and this is what I represent, and I'm going with all my soul and my heart."

Orlando had a week off following nine matches in May, including U.S. Open Cup commitments. They remain one of the league's most diverse attacks. Martin Ojeda has eight goals and four assists, while Luis Muriel and Marco Pasalic have six goals each.

--Field Level Media