Colorado Rapids striker Rafael Navarro was announced to Major League Soccer's Team of the Matchday on Monday, occupying a spot on the bench for his game-winning performance against Austin FC in Matchday 19.Â
In over 90 minutes frought with chances in the final third, it wouldn't be until second-half stoppage time that the Rafael Navarro would see the Rapids' breakthrough on Saturday night at DICK'S Sporting Goods Park.Â
After fellow striker Darren Yapi's shot was parried away, it was Navarro that jumped on the second chance and was then taken down in the box.Â
The Brazilian Designated Player stepped to the spot in the 94th minute, burying the shot in the right corner past Austin's Brad Stuver.
Navarro was previously named to three Team of the Matchdays, and earned one Player of the Matchday honor this season (Matchdays 3, 5, 7).Â
The goal marked his 37th as a member of the Rapids in MLS regular season play, putting him into a tie with John Spencer for the fourth-most in club history. The game-winning PK also marked the third most penalty-kick goals for a single player in club history with 8.Â
"We do a lot of work behind the scenes," said Head Coach Matt Wells postgame. "Whenever we get a penalty, I at least have confidence. I know exactly where the penalty is going because I watch Rafa practice that penalty numerous times the day before the game....On the sideline, at least, I have good confidence to watch him. I know exactly where he's going to put the ball. He has a clear process--even down to how he plays with his socks, to how he breathes, to how he sets himself up, the visualization. He could miss a penalty, but at the minute, he's in really good form. Overall, it's a great lesson for him to keep going to the end."
Navarro and the Rapids will next take on Sporting Kansas City on August 15 at DICK'S Sporting Goods Park. Kickoff at altitude is set for 7:30 p.m. MT.
Team of the Matchday - Matchday 19
F: Mijahir Jiménez (RBNY), Robert Lewandowski (CHI), Luis Suárez (MIA)
M: Guilherme (HOU), Evander (CIN), Carles Gil (NE), Philip Zinckernagel (CHI)
D: Kai Wagner (PHI), Neil Pierre (PHI), Brandon Bye (POR)
GK: Jonathan Sirois (DAL)
Coach: Jack Cassidy (POR)
Bench: CJ Dos Santos (SD), Brayan Vera (MTL), Brais Méndez (CLB), Thomas Müller (VAN), Cade Cowell (RBNY), Timo Werner (SJ), Rafael Navarro (COL), Tai Baribo (DC), Milan Iloksi (PHI)
