Darren Yapi Colorado Rapids #77 Forward: Player Profile and Performance Analysis

You tune in to a Colorado Rapids match, and there’s #77—Darren Yapi—charging upfield, making things happen. This young forward has made some serious waves with his athleticism and relentless drive. At just 20, he’s already left his mark on Major League Soccer. You notice the sharp runs, the persistence, the way he always seems to find the right spot.

Yapi’s a Denver native, so every time he steps on the field, he brings a little extra for the home crowd. Fans have watched him step up in big moments, not just in MLS, but on the international youth stage too. If you want to keep up with his stats and latest news, check the official Colorado Rapids site or his Wikipedia profile.

He’s easy to spot: #77, always looking to break through defenses, always hungry for the next chance. Whether you’ve been following the Rapids for years or you’re just tuning in, Yapi’s the guy you want to keep an eye on.

Darren Yapi: Player Profile

Let’s talk about Darren Yapi. He’s a skilled forward who’s shown steady progress with the Rapids. His profile? Think physical strength, technical skill, and a journey that feels uniquely his.

Position and Playing Style

Yapi plays up top as a forward—usually right in the middle for Colorado. The #77 jersey has become a fixture for fans who pay attention. You’ll see him holding up the ball, linking play, and pressing defenders.

He uses his size and quick turns to carve out space. Off the ball, he’s always moving, always a headache for defenders. Sometimes he’s making those darting runs behind the backline, sometimes drifting wide to open up a passing lane.

He’s tough in physical duels and stays busy around the penalty area. In his time with the Rapids, Yapi has learned when to drop deep and when to head straight for goal. His awareness and link-up play keep getting better, which is exactly what you want from a young forward in MLS.

Position	Role	Jersey Number	Team
Forward	Centre-Forward	77	Colorado Rapids

Height and Physical Attributes

You can’t really miss Yapi on the pitch—he stands 6’1” (1.85 m). That height gives him an edge in the air, and his solid build helps him shield the ball.

He’s got good pace too, especially over short bursts. You’ll see him outmuscle defenders and chase down through balls. Even though he’s still young, Yapi handles himself well against veteran center backs.

His athleticism lets the Rapids press from the front and attack in transition. He’s got the stamina to keep pushing for the full 90, which makes him a real asset up top.

Height	Weight	Dominant Foot	Physical Strength
6’1” (1.85 m)	Not officially listed	Right	High

Date and Place of Birth

Darren Yapi was born November 19, 2004. That sets him apart from a lot of his MLS peers.

He started out in the Bronx, New York, but really developed as a player in Colorado. The Rapids’ youth system shaped him into the player he is now.

Born in 2004, Yapi’s one of the youngest regulars in the league. As of 2025, he’s a 20-year-old with more experience than you’d expect.

Date of Birth	Place of Birth	Age (as of 2025)
November 19, 2004	Bronx, New York, United States	20

Citizenship and Eligibility

Yapi holds U.S. citizenship, so he’s eligible for the national teams—and he’s already played at youth levels.

You might’ve caught him on the U.S. roster for the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup. His international experience puts him in the conversation with some of the country’s top young talents.

His full name is Darren Kissy Yapi, which you’ll see on official documents. He’s still eligible for future U.S. call-ups, and you can bet he’ll be in the mix for years to come.

Colorado Rapids Career

Darren Yapi, wearing #77, has gone from promising academy kid to a regular contributor for the Rapids. His MLS journey features real growth—more games, more goals, and a bigger role in attack.

Squad Role and Number

Yapi joined the Rapids first team at just 16, which is wild when you think about it. Since then, he’s become a valued squad member, often playing up front and showing he can handle different roles.

Coaches have used him as both a starter and a sub, depending on the matchup. Sometimes he leads the line, other times he comes off the bench to shake things up late.

As a homegrown player, Yapi’s story really highlights the Rapids’ focus on developing local talent. You see the team’s investment in youth paying off every time he steps on the field.

Key Seasons and Development

Yapi made his MLS debut back in 2021, one of the youngest to do it for Colorado. Early on, he picked up minutes in league games, U.S. Open Cup matches, and even with Rapids 2.

Each season, you could see him grow—more maturity, smarter movement, better reads. His playing time went up, and he adjusted to the pace and physicality of MLS.

By 2023, Yapi started to cement his spot in the lineup. Coaches and teammates gave him more trust, especially in big moments when the Rapids needed a spark up front.

Stats and Appearances

Yapi’s stats tell the story of a young player working his way into the first team. Since his debut, he’s racked up dozens of MLS appearances. Here’s a quick look at his numbers:

Season	Appearances (Apps)	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2021	5	0	0	80
2022	15	1	1	400
2023	20	2	2	1,000
2024	25	4	3	1,600

He’s played mostly as a forward, with his starts and minutes ticking up each year. The growing numbers show he’s becoming more important to the Rapids attack.

Goals and Notable Performances

Yapi’s first MLS goal? That was a big one—he showed he could deliver when it mattered most. He’s scored in clutch moments, like stoppage-time equalizers and game-winners.

He’s dangerous on crosses, set pieces, and when pressing high. But it’s not just the goals—his work rate often forces turnovers and creates chances for teammates.

Some games, he’s racked up multiple assists, proving he’s not just a scorer but a creator too. The Rapids need players like that if they’re going to compete in MLS. And honestly, you get the sense Yapi’s best moments are still coming.

You can dive deeper into his career and stats on the Colorado Rapids player page or check out his history on Transfermarkt.

MLS and Domestic Competitions

Darren Yapi’s tenure with the Rapids has featured steady growth and plenty of game time. You can track his journey through regular MLS matches, domestic tournaments, and stints in MLS Next Pro.

Major League Soccer Matches

Yapi signed as the youngest-ever Homegrown for the Rapids, debuting at just 16 years and 104 days. He wears #77 and plays forward, plain and simple. Early on, he mostly came off the bench, but he’s earned more starts as he’s developed.

His presence gives Rapids fans hope for the future. He’s stepped up in big moments, whether it’s late in games or during cup runs. Here’s a snapshot of his MLS regular season numbers:

Season	Matches Played	Starts	Goals	Assists	Minutes Played
2021	5	0	0	0	43
2022	11	2	0	1	283
2023	19	5	1	2	635
2024	17	4	1	1	520

Yapi’s regular minutes show the coaching staff trusts him, and it hints at even more upside down the road.

Leagues Cup and Other Tournaments

Yapi has played in domestic cups too, giving fans a look at him outside of MLS play. He’s seen action in the Leagues Cup, which brings together MLS and Liga MX teams. Usually, he comes on late, trying to use his energy and speed to make something happen.

He’s also played in the U.S. Open Cup, though most of his minutes are still in league play. In every competition, Yapi pushes to make an impact, showing he wants more responsibility. You can keep up with his tournament stats on MLS and Leagues Cup sites.

MLS Next Pro Involvement

When he’s not with the first team, Yapi keeps sharp in MLS Next Pro with Rapids 2. This league is all about developing young talent and prepping them for the big stage. Yapi stands out, earning starts and plenty of minutes.

For a player his age, getting regular games in MLS Next Pro is huge. You watch him battle other top prospects, work on his finishing, and learn how to lead. He’s been a key contributor, both scoring and helping the team in other ways. For more details, check his Rapids profile.

Loan Spells and Other Clubs

Darren Yapi has picked up valuable experience through loan spells and playing in other leagues. Those challenges have helped him grow as a forward, giving him a broader perspective outside of Major League Soccer.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks Experience

When Darren Yapi made the jump from the Rapids to the Colorado Springs Switchbacks, you could almost feel the energy shift. A young forward, hungry to prove himself, taking on a tougher league—now that’s a story worth following.

This loan move kicked off in early 2021. Suddenly, Yapi was squaring up against seasoned pros, and for a teenager, that’s a massive leap. Significant step? Absolutely.

The Switchbacks compete in the USL Championship, and that meant Yapi finally got regular minutes. He started showing his stuff in games that counted, sharpening his instincts up front.

Fans started noticing his speed and physicality. They saw flashes of why the Rapids had bet on him so young.

Yapi’s stint wasn’t just about putting the ball in the net. He learned how to find space, deal with tough defenders, and handle pressure. Every week, you could see him growing—this was an important chapter before he’d get another shot with Colorado.

Key stats from loan:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2021	17	2	1

USL Championship Career

Watching Yapi in the USL Championship, you really got a sense of his potential against grown men. This league is a breeding ground for young American talent, and Yapi didn’t look out of place.

Every match dialed up the difficulty, forcing him to tweak his game. He started pressing defenders, linking up play, and tracking back when needed. Not just a finisher—he became a more complete forward.

The atmosphere in the USL is different. Smaller stadiums, sure, but the pressure? Still sky-high. This run tested his mental toughness and helped lock in his status as one of the top teenagers in the Rapids’ pipeline.

He faced veterans trying to revive their careers, and up-and-comers looking to break through. Yapi had no choice but to adapt fast. These battles prepared him for the next level with the Colorado Rapids first team.

International Prospects

Darren Yapi’s got some real momentum as an international prospect. He’s getting national team call-ups and making an impression in youth games. You can follow his climb as he pushes for a bigger role with the United States—maybe even a shot at facing Argentina someday.

Eligibility for the U.S. Roster

Yapi’s 100% eligible for the U.S. squad. Born in Denver, he came up through the Rapids academy and snagged call-ups for the U.S. U-19 Men’s Youth National Team. That’s a solid endorsement of his standing in the American system.

He’s got American citizenship, so the path to the senior team is wide open. There’s talk of possible dual eligibility, but so far, all his caps have come with the U.S. U-19s. That lines up with the Rapids’ growing influence on the U.S. national setup.

His time with the national youth team isn’t just about training. Being picked and actually playing bumps his profile and puts him on the radar of scouts and coaches. If you’re scouting for the next breakout American striker, you’ve got to keep an eye on this guy.

Recent Call-Ups Table

Year	National Team	Appearances	Goals
2023	U.S. U-19	2	1

Notable Matches Against International Teams

Take a look at Yapi’s international resume, and you’ll spot some interesting matchups. He’s gone up against strong youth teams from other countries, and those minutes in friendlies and camps say a lot about his upside.

One highlight came during the U-19 camps—he found the net against a top youth team from abroad. He hasn’t faced senior teams like Argentina yet, but these youth matches are where you cut your teeth.

If you want to follow his journey, keep an eye on tournaments and friendlies that pit the U.S. against world-class youth teams. Every international match is a learning experience and a step toward a possible senior U.S. call-up. You can dig deeper into his national team background over at the Colorado Rapids website.

Memorable Matches and Highlights

Darren Yapi’s time with the Colorado Rapids has already produced some highlight-reel moments. Each big game has helped build his reputation as a guy who can deliver when the lights are brightest.

Game Highlights and Videos

If you want to see Yapi in action, the Rapids’ video hub has you covered. There are quick highlight reels, postgame interviews, and season recaps.

Fans still talk about his performances in the 2023 MLS Next Pro playoffs with Rapids 2. Watch the postgame clips and you’ll see Yapi’s focus and drive—especially after big wins and clutch goals. His movement in the box and coolness after scoring pop off the screen.

He’s not just a solo act. You’ll see him link up with guys like Kevin Cabral and Jonathan Lewis, pulling defenders out of position and opening up space.

Key 2023 Video Highlights Table

Date	Opponent	Notable Play	Result
Oct 16, 2023	Austin FC II	Forward runs, combo	Rapids win, advance
Late 2023	Earthquakes II	Key goal, celebration	Rapids win, advance

Key Goals and Game-Winners

Yapi’s first MLS goal was a breakthrough, and you can relive it in these highlights. The relief, the celebration, the teammates piling on—it’s all there.

He’s got a knack for delivering when it counts. In the 2023 playoffs against Earthquakes II, he scored a huge goal that pushed Rapids 2 into the Western Conference Final. That’s the kind of moment you remember.

His goals usually come from smart positioning and timing, not just pure speed. These clutch finishes show why he’s so valuable to the Rapids attack. More often than not, his strikes flip the momentum in Colorado’s favor.

Transfers and Market Value

Darren Yapi’s early start and steady climb with the Colorado Rapids have made some waves. Scouts and fans alike are tracking his transfer value and contract milestones.

Transfermarkt Profile

Want the latest on Yapi’s value and moves? Transfermarkt is your go-to. Yapi’s listed as a center forward, and his market value keeps ticking up as he racks up MLS experience.

Right now, Transfermarkt puts him at about €1.50 million. That’s a serious climb for a player who only debuted a few years ago.

You’ll find all the details—age, height, club status—on his profile. European scouts keep a close eye on that page. His value gets updated based on his play, minutes, and upside.

Career Value Table:

Year	Market Value (€)	Club	League
2020	100,000	Colorado Rapids	Major League Soccer
2023	1,200,000	Colorado Rapids	Major League Soccer
2025	1,500,000	Colorado Rapids	Major League Soccer

Yapi’s steady rise is drawing more attention from clubs that want young, athletic forwards.

Youngest Signing Milestones

Yapi’s got a spot in the record books as one of the youngest ever to sign with the Rapids. He joined the first team in 2020, and at just 15, he was already turning heads.

That debut season put him in rare company with other MLS homegrown stars. Colorado’s focus on youth gave Yapi the chance to jump straight into the senior squad.

His quick rise has made him one to watch for U.S. Soccer fans and analysts. Young signings like Yapi often attract extra attention from European scouts, which only adds to the buzz around his early career.

Contracts and Expiry Dates

Contracts always tell part of the story. Yapi’s deal with the Rapids shows the club’s belief in him as a long-term piece. After his first pro contract in 2020, he’s signed extensions as he’s grown into a bigger role.

As of June 2025, he’s still under contract with Colorado, with the latest info pointing to a deal that runs through the next few seasons. MLS contracts usually last two or three years, sometimes with options, and Yapi fits that mold.

Sticking with the Rapids gives him room to develop. But with his rising value and on-field performances, you can bet other clubs are watching for a chance to swoop in as his contract nears its end.

Notable Opponents and Venues

Yapi’s journey with the Rapids has included battles against expansion teams, MLS originals, and some tough road environments. Every matchup has tested his focus and helped him grow.

San Diego FC Encounters

When the Rapids take on San Diego FC, things get lively. As one of the league’s newest teams, San Diego brings unpredictability and a ton of energy.

Yapi’s had to stay sharp in these games—tracking back, pressing, and fighting for every inch in the box. He’s shown off his versatility and calm under pressure here.

Coaches have leaned on him for outlet passes during tough stretches. In their most recent clash, Yapi timed a run perfectly and nearly scored, but the keeper came up big.

Opponent	Matches Played	Goals	Assists	Shots on Target
San Diego FC	2	0	1	3

Matches Against New England Revolution

Facing New England Revolution is a different beast. That’s a team with a strong midfield and a disciplined back line.

Yapi, wearing No. 77, often becomes the focus of the Rapids’ attack in these matchups. He’s had to work with teammates to break through New England’s double pivots.

His hold-up play has been crucial on the counter. He’s won some big fouls near the box, setting up set piece chances for Colorado.

Yapi’s shown real maturity against New England—communicating, moving off the ball, and keeping defenders honest. He hasn’t scored on them yet, but his movement has opened up plenty of space for others.

Opponent	Matches Played	Key Passes	Fouls Won	Shots Taken
New England Revolution	3	5	4	7

Games at Gillette Stadium

Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, is a whole different test. The turf, the weather, the crowd—it all adds up.

Yapi’s played here a couple times, and each game has demanded quick adjustments. The turf changes the way the ball bounces, so first touches and sprints are a little trickier.

He’s focused on quick passes and finding gaps in New England’s defense. Stamina matters too, as these games often come down to late surges.

He hasn’t scored at Gillette yet, but coaches and teammates have praised his work rate. These experiences are shaping how he approaches tough road games as he keeps climbing.

Key Venue Stats at Gillette Stadium:

• Matches Played: 2
• Shots on Target: 2
• Fouls Won: 2
• Minutes Played: 140

Ticketing and Fan Engagement

Want to catch Darren Yapi and the Rapids live? Getting tickets is your ticket to all the action. Special partnerships make buying seats easier, and knowing where to look for deals can really boost your matchday experience.

How to Find Tickets

Alright, let’s talk Rapids tickets. Most fans just head straight to the official team website when they want to snag seats. I mean, why risk it? You get legit tickets, and you can actually pick your spot.

You’ll usually find an interactive stadium map there, so you can really see where you’ll be sitting before you commit. If you’re running late or the match already sold out, don’t worry—folks often turn to trusted places like Ticketmaster or SeatGeek for last-minute grabs.

Sometimes you’ll spot family packages or group discounts, especially when home games feature big-name players. That’s always a bonus, right?

Let’s break down the ticket options you’ll see on matchday:

Ticket Type	Description	Typical Price Range
General Admission	Open seating, family-friendly	$20 – $40
Premium Sideline	Close to the field, best views	$45 – $90
Supporters Section	Standing, high energy, loud crowd	$22 – $36
Luxury Boxes/Suites	Private, food included, VIP access	$100+

Vivid Seats Partnerships

Alright, folks, let’s talk Vivid Seats—the official partner and reseller for Major League Soccer clubs, including those Colorado Rapids games everybody’s buzzing about. When you go with Vivid Seats, you’re getting a secure buying experience, and their buyer guarantee? It’s got your back, so you’re not stressing about fake tickets.

The platform’s actually pretty easy to use. You can sort tickets by price, section, or date—whatever works for you.

Promos and special codes pop up all the time. If you buy often, you might even snag credits for your next purchase.

A lot of fans turn to Vivid Seats when they need tickets for sold-out matches or just want to find those rare seats. Sometimes, they even offer mobile tickets, so you can just flash your phone at the stadium gate and you’re in.

Before every home game, Vivid Seats lists what’s available, and they break down the sections so you can compare your options fast. Services like Vivid Seats really come through when other places are out of tickets.

Don’t forget to check their return policy, just in case your plans change before game time.