Colorado Rapids striker Rafael Navarro was named Player of the Matchday on April 14 following his significant contribution in the team’s 6-2 win over Houston Dynamo FC during Matchday 7. Navarro recorded two goals and an assist, bringing his total goal contributions this season to nine (five goals and four assists), which places him second in the league’s rankings.
Navarro’s performance included assisting Josh Atencio’s goal in the 17th minute, setting up a play that resulted in Atencio scoring from inside the box. Later, Navarro scored himself after receiving a pass from teammate Georgi Minoungou, moving him into sixth place on Colorado Rapids’ all-time goal list with his 32nd club goal. He achieved this milestone faster than previous record holders Chris Henderson and Cole Bassett.
He capped off his night by converting a penalty kick during stoppage time after Paxten Aaronson drew a foul in the box. This marked Navarro’s sixth multi-goal game for the Rapids, equaling Conor Casey’s record for such performances at the club.
This is Navarro’s second time earning Player of the Matchday honors; he previously received it in August 2025 after another three-goal contribution against Atlanta United FC. In addition to Navarro, Head Coach Matt Wells, midfielder Josh Atencio, and defender Kosi Thompson were also named to Team of the Matchday for their roles in securing victory over Houston Dynamo FC.
Looking ahead, Colorado Rapids will host Union Omaha on Tuesday in a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 32 match before facing Inter Miami CF at Empower Field on Saturday as part of their 30th Anniversary celebrations.
