Stephen Afrifa
SKC
Center Forward
Right Winger
Poacher
Feb 19, 2001 (25)
Right
5'11"
150 lb
Scores in narrow defeat
Afrifa scored one goal to go with nine shots (four on goal), two crosses (zero accurate) and one chance created in Saturday's 2-1 defeat against Austin FC. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 46th minute.
Analysis: Afrifa was Sporting Kansas City's most dangerous attacking player, attempting nine shots and opening the scoring in the 56th minute with a low finish into the bottom corner following Andre Luiz's assist. The Canadian winger also forced two saves from Damian Las late in the first half and came close to scoring again after the break, but his efforts were ultimately insufficient to prevent defeat. Afrifa has now registered four goals and three assists across 26 MLS appearances this season, including nine starts. Having started eight of Sporting's last nine matches, he appears to have established himself as a regular attacking option, with his high shot volume against Austin highlighting his growing offensive involvement.
Assists in Thursday's loss
Afrifa assisted once to go with four shots (one on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and two chances created in Thursday's 2-1 loss to Seattle Sounders FC.
Analysis: Afrifa assisted Andre Luiz's goal just before halftime Thursday, his second straight game with an assist. It was one of two chances he created and he also took four shots for just the second time this season. He was subbed off in the 76th minute for Seymour Reid.
Sets up opener in another start
Afrifa assisted once to go with two shots (zero on goal) and two chances created in Saturday's 2-0 win over Houston Dynamo. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 68th minute.
Analysis: Afrifa set up the opener in Sporting Kansas City's road win at Houston, his second assist of the MLS season and his first since mid March. The forward has been one of the main beneficiaries of Dejan Joveljic's departure, and after missing out on the starting lineup in the first two games following that exit, he has now started four in a row. Across that run he has taken 12 shots, created five chances and scored once.
Scores in loss
Afrifa scored one goal to go with three shots (two on goal) and one chance created in Saturday's 4-3 defeat to FC Dallas.
Analysis: Afrifa capitalized on a defensive error, reacting quickly to turn the ball home in what was just his second start of the season. His three goals from 13 shots across 19 appearances reflect an impressive conversion rate for a player who has spent much of the campaign coming off the bench, and the quality of chances he gets into when given the opportunity highlights his attacking instincts in the box. A strong showing in his starting role could see him retain his place for the next fixture against Minnesota United, who sit 11th in the Western Conference, presenting a favorable opportunity to build on his contributions this season.
Net consolation goal
Afrifa scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) in Sunday's 2-1 loss versus Atlanta United.
Analysis: Afrifa would find the back of the net Sunday to give Kansas City a little hope to end the match, making it 2-1 before their eventual loss. This comes after only 29 minutes of play, appearing off the bench for a second straight game, as he hasn't started in the club's past four games. This was only his second goal of the season, with his last coming May 17.
Scores winner Saturday
Afrifa scored one goal to go with one shot (one on goal) in Saturday's 2-1 victory versus Austin FC.
Analysis: Afrifa scored the match-winning goal Saturday, an unassisted strike in the 82nd minute just three minutes after Manu Garcia tied the match at 1-1. It was the only shot Afrifa took in the match, and it marked his first goal of the season. He also won one duel and committed two fouls in his 15 minutes off the bench.
Select Player
Search and select a player to compare