FC Cincinnati vs. Colorado Rapids – MLS, June 19, 2021

The Rapids will aim to secure their fifth win in six games when they visit FC Cincinnati’s all-new TQL Stadium this Saturday, June 19.

By contrast, Jaap Stam’s men will be hoping to avoid a fifth loss in six matches this weekend. They currently occupy last place in the Eastern Conference, while Colorado sits fourth in the West.

Before we get to my prediction and pick for FC Cincinnati vs. Colorado Rapids, let’s look at the odds for Saturday’s clash and assess both teams’ prospects.

This matchup brings together two sides in contrasting form – and the bookmakers’ odds reflect that. Even on home soil, Cincinnati (3.20) is the obvious underdog here.

Having won four of their previous five games, the Rapids are expected to claim all three points on Saturday. Still, it is worth pointing out that Colorado has only picked up one road win in three attempts this year.

It wouldn’t be unfair to say that Cincinnati’s campaign is following a familiar pattern. The Ohio outfit has finished rock bottom of the overall standings in each of the past two seasons and looks set to endure another testing year.

Stam’s men managed to hold Nashville to a draw on the opening weekend, but they suffered three consecutive defeats soon after. Then, following a shock win over Montreal, they returned to losing ways last time out – falling to New England.

Indeed, they have conceded a whopping 15 goals in six matches this season, meaning they have the worst defensive record in Major League Soccer.

Stam’s men have conceded at least two goals in five of their six games this year and have let in over 2.5 goals on three occasions, including a 5-0 thrashing to New York City.

Unfortunately for the Orange & Blue, the free-scoring Rapids will be licking their lips at the prospect of exploiting Cincy’s leaky backline.

Having notched 12 goals across their opening seven games this term, Robin Fraser’s men are the third-highest scorers in the West. On top of that, they boast the third-best defensive record.

The Rapids have netted exactly three goals in each of their previous three wins. Minnesota, Houston, and Dallas all suffered at the hands of Colorado last month – and Fraser’s men will be confident of extending their scoring streak this weekend.

Diego Rubio, Michael Barrios, and Cole Bassett have each chalked up two goals this term, while five other players have also gotten on the scoresheet in 2021.

The gulf between Cincinnati and Colorado is clear for all to see at the moment. While the Rapids have won four of their last five games, Stam’s men have four of their previous five.

With that in mind, you won’t be shocked to hear that I’m going with the away win for my FC Cincinnati vs. Colorado Rapids prediction.