Colorado Rapids' Lucas Herrington has been learning from the best, facing Lionel Messi in a recent match.

What happened?

Herrington, 18, has started every game since moving to MLS from the A-League Men's Brisbane Roar in January 2026. He has been matched up against top players like Messi, Son Heung-Min, and Thomas Müller.

Why it matters for Colorado Rapids

The Rapids are having a landmark season, reaching the U.S. Open Cup semifinals for the first time since 1999. Their league standing is 11th in Major League Soccer, with 41 points from 34 games. | Stat | Value | | --- | --- | | Goals scored | 44 | | Goals conceded | 56 | | Goal difference | -12 | Herrington's development has been aided by his center back partner, Rob Holding, who has played 98 games for Arsenal in the Premier League.

What comes next?

Herrington is currently training with Australia's extended squad ahead of the World Cup and is fighting for a place in the Socceroos' 26-man squad. The next fixture for Colorado Rapids is against San Diego on August 23, 2026. They are 22 points behind leaders San Diego in the title race. Herrington's coolness under pressure was on display when he helped the Socceroos keep a clean sheet on his international debut against Cameroon in March.