Rapids Aim to Seize Opportunity Against Messi and Inter Miami

Colorado Rapids host star-studded Inter Miami at Empower Field in front of record crowd

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:33am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in vibrant colors representing a soccer match between the Colorado Rapids and Inter Miami, with sharp geometric shapes and planes colliding to capture the high-intensity action on the pitch.An abstract, cubist-inspired illustration captures the intensity and energy of the Colorado Rapids' high-stakes clash with Lionel Messi and Inter Miami at Empower Field.Denver Today

The Colorado Rapids are set to host Inter Miami and global superstar Lionel Messi at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver on Saturday. The match is a chance for the Rapids to showcase their high-flying, dominant style of play in front of a record crowd expected to exceed 70,000. Head coach Matt Wells is determined for his team to make a strong impression and capture the attention of casual soccer fans drawn to see Messi.

Why it matters

This game represents a significant opportunity for the Rapids to reinsert themselves into the Denver sports landscape. With plans to revamp their brand and crest, the Rapids hope a strong performance against the star-studded Inter Miami side can help them connect with casual fans and build momentum in their local market.

The details

The Rapids have been in strong form under first-year head coach Matt Wells, scoring 19 goals in their first 7 games. However, they now face their toughest test yet against an Inter Miami team led by Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and Luis Suárez. Inter Miami is in transition after the surprising departure of head coach Javier Mascherano earlier this week, leaving Guillermo Hoyos as the interim coach.

  • The Colorado Rapids played their first game at Mile High Stadium 30 years ago on April 13, 1996.
  • Saturday's match at Empower Field at Mile High will kick off at 2:30 PM local time.

The players

Marcelo Balboa

A Colorado Rapids icon who joined the club in its inaugural 1996 MLS season, Balboa recalls the excitement of playing in front of over 21,000 fans at Mile High Stadium for the first time.

Matt Wells

The 37-year-old first-time head coach of the Colorado Rapids, who has led the team to a 4-3-0 record and a high-scoring, aggressive style of play so far this season.

Lionel Messi

The global soccer superstar who recently joined Inter Miami and is expected to draw a massive crowd to Saturday's match at Empower Field.

Rodrigo De Paul

The Argentine midfielder who plays alongside Messi at Inter Miami and is known for his creativity and goal-scoring ability.

Luis Suárez

The Uruguayan legend who missed Inter Miami's MLS Cup final appearance last season and will look to make an impact against the Rapids.

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What they’re saying

“When we stepped out on the field, you see 20,000 people applauding you, it's like, 'Holy crap, OK. This can work.'”

— Marcelo Balboa, Colorado Rapids icon

“We want to be the best version of ourselves tomorrow. We've got an excellent home record, we've been superb here in Colorado and in the altitude, so the fact we're in a different stadium doesn't make a difference to me.”

— Matt Wells, Colorado Rapids head coach

“All I see is opportunity for us to play our football and opportunity for us to put on an incredible showing for our fans that come to every game, and for us to put on a great show to the fans that are maybe coming for the first time and potentially coming for different reasons — to see Miami and Messi.”

— Matt Wells, Colorado Rapids head coach

What’s next

The Rapids will look to build on their strong start to the season and capitalize on the opportunity to showcase their team in front of a record crowd at Empower Field. A positive result against the star-studded Inter Miami side could help the Rapids gain more attention and support in the Denver market.

The takeaway

This game represents a pivotal moment for the Colorado Rapids as they aim to reestablish their relevance in the Denver sports landscape. A strong performance against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami could help the Rapids connect with casual fans and build momentum as they unveil a new brand identity for the club.