COMMERCE CITY, Colo. — Rafael Navarro emerged as a key player for the Colorado Rapids, scoring twice to help his team secure a 3-3 draw against FC Dallas in an action-packed home opener on Saturday night. The match saw Colorado and Dallas locked in a thrilling contest, with both teams showcasing determination and skill.
In the early stages of the game, the Rapids found the net when defender Keegan Rosenberry scored in the 6th minute. Assisted by Oliver Larraz, this goal marked the 10th in Rosenberry’s career, while Larraz celebrated his first career assist during his 27th start and 41st appearance with the team. Before halftime, Navarro increased the Rapids’ lead to 2-0 with a swift unassisted goal in the 39th minute, adding to his 15 goals scored last season.
However, FC Dallas was quick to respond, leveling the score before the break. Pedro “Pedrinho” Martins, a young midfielder, scored an unassisted goal during his first start and second appearance in the 43rd minute. Just minutes after Martins’ goal, Luciano Acosta, a former league MVP recently acquired from FC Cincinnati, equalized the game with an assist from Petar Musa, making the score 2-2.
The second half saw Dallas take the lead with an impressive goal from Musa in the 68th minute, marking his second goal of the season. Yet, Navarro had other plans, responding quickly in the 72nd minute to level the score at 3-3, benefiting from another assist by Larraz.
Both teams demonstrated their defensive skills as well, with Zack Steffen registering a save for the Rapids, and Maarten Paes securing three saves for Dallas. Dallas arrived with confidence, having defeated the Houston Dynamo 2-1 in a recent away game, securing their first win in Houston since 2016 under new head coach Eric Quill.
Last season, Colorado showed strength by defeating Dallas twice under the leadership of Chris Armas. Looking ahead, FC Dallas is set to host the Chicago Fire, and the Rapids will head to Austin FC for their next match.
