Colorado Rapids vs. Austin FC – MLS, April 24, 2021

Having given a good account of themselves on the opening weekend, MLS newcomers Austin FC travel to Colorado to face the Rapids on Saturday, April 24.

The Rapids registered a goalless draw with FC Dallas last time out, meaning both sides will be searching for their first win of the season at DSG Park.

If you’re betting on Colorado Rapids vs. FC Dallas – keep reading. I assess the teams, look at the bookmakers’ odds, and provide my prediction and betting pick for Saturday’s clash.

Following an impressive end to 2020, many believed that Colorado would hit the ground running this year.

Unfortunately, Robin Fraser’s men were unable to claim all three points against Dallas last weekend. But they thoroughly deserved to take a point away from Nissan Stadium.

Funnily enough, Michael Barrios was the Rapids’ standout performer against the Toros. Having made over 200 appearances for Dallas, the Colombian winger joined Colorado during the offseason and made an immediate impact against his former club.

In the absence of young star Sam Vines, Kellyn Acosta also starred for the Rapids last time out. His versatility could prove to be hugely beneficial as the season develops.

Fraser’s men only saw 45% possession last weekend, yet they still managed to equal Dallas’ shot count (11). If they create that many opportunities against Austin, they will surely convert at least one.

Let’s face it – nobody expected Austin to beat LAFC, did they? I mean, it almost seemed unfair that the expansion club’s first MLS match was against the 2019 Supporters’ Shield champs.

Still, I think we can all agree that the newcomers put in a valiant performance last weekend.

Josh Wolff’s men showed glimpses of genuine quality as they implemented the head coach’s possession-based philosophy. In fact, they even enjoyed 56% of the ball and made almost 100 passes more than Bob Bradley’s side.

Despite the best efforts of DP duo Cecilio Dominguez and Tomas Pochettino, the Texans eventually lost 2-0. However, they can be extremely proud of the way they carried themselves throughout their maiden MLS match.

Given that five ATX starters were making their MLS debuts last weekend, the team will only improve as the campaign unfolds.

Sure, Wolff’s men gave a good account of themselves against LAFC. But as you can see, the top-rated online sports betting sites still view Austin (4.75) as the clear outsider.

Colorado (1.71) heads into Saturday’s clash as the obvious favorite, although the price for the home win isn’t overly attractive. Could the draw (3.65) be the way to go?

In my eyes, the odds for the Colorado win offer very little value here. The Rapids clearly have far more experience to call upon, but I don’t think they are guaranteed to win this game.

Having considered everything, I’m going with the draw for my Colorado Rapids vs. Austin FC betting pick. The newcomers showed everybody what they are capable of last weekend, so I can see them frustrating Colorado and picking up their first MLS point on Saturday.