Zack Steffen's penalty-shootout heroics led Colorado Rapids past Philadelphia Union in Sunday's Leagues Cup Third Place Match, clinching a spot in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.
Steffen denied consecutive shots from Dániel Gazdag and Tai Baribo, helping the Rapids secure a 3-1 PK shootout win after playing to a 2-2 draw at Subaru Park.
Spot kicks came courtesy of Colorado homegrown Oliver Larraz's stunning volley early in the second half, which leveled the score after Baribo struck for a first-half brace.
Back from suspension after missing Philly's semifinal loss at the Columbus Crew, the Israeli international canceled Calvin Harris' 38th-minute opener with rapid-fire tallies to earn the Leagues Cup Golden Boot with seven goals.
However, Baribo's brace wasn't enough to avoid Colorado's comeback and eventual win that puts them back into the international spotlight after a Cinderella Leagues Cup run.
Goles
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: Colorado's makeover under head coach Chris Armas is looking better by the day, thanks to a brilliant Leagues Cup tournament. After downing four straight LIGA MX opponents, the Rapids got rewarded by qualifying for next year's Concacaf Champions Cup – the continent's marquee club competition. Additionally, they'll enter the MLS home stretch with newfound vigor as they look to secure an Audi MLS Cup Playoffs spot.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: When Steffen denied Gazdag – Philly's go-to penalty-kick taker – on the Union's first PK attempt, it set the tone in a shootout the Rapids completely dominated.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: Steffen made two massive saves in the PK shootout win that ensured the Rapids a CCC berth.
Next Up
- PHI: Wednesday. Aug. 28 vs. Columbus Crew | 7:30 pm ET (Apple TV - Free) | MLS Regular Season
- COL: Saturday, Aug. 31 at FC Dallas | 8:30 pm ET (MLS Season Pass) | MLS Regular Season
