Kofi Opare (right) was integral to United’s success at limiting Juan Agudelo (center) and the dangerous New England Revolution attack in their 2-2 draw (photo credit: Kari Heistad)
One of the key factors behind D.C. United’s recent run of success has been the play of their defense. Over the past three and a half seasons United have become one of the best defensive units in Major League Soccer. There are many reasons for hwy this unit has been so successful but perhaps one of the biggest reasons is due to the play of Kofi Opare. Acting as the glue of the D.C. defense Opare has emerged as a key asset for coach Ben Olsen as both a spot starter and super-substitute.
Opare is a nine year veteran of Major League Soccer having originally been drafted to the Los Angeles Galaxy in the second round of the 2013 SuperDraft. After being traded to United in 2014 Opare has become an integral part of Ben Olsen’s defense. He has made 30 appearances with the club, 28 of which were starts. More recently he has taken on the role of starting center-back, filling in for injured captain Steve Birnbaum.
Prior to today’s match against Atlanta United (3pm Fox Sports 1) Prost Amerika had the chance to speak with Opare about his career, his time with D.C., and what he likes to do in the nation’s capital.
Note: Thanks again to the D.C. United Communications Department for assisting with procuring this interview.
Prost Amerika: What is your favorite TV show?
Kofi Opare: Prison Break.
PA: What was the last good book that you read?
KO: Dead Aid by Dambisa Moyo.
PA: What is your favorite song to listen to when you work out?
KO: “Push it”by OT Genasis.
PA: What is the best restaurant in the Washington D.C. area?
KO: Fiola Mare.
PA: What is your favorite pair of boots that you have worn in your career?
KO: My favorite boots that I have worn in my career would have to be the Nike Tempos.
PA: If you could be FIFA President for one day what is the first item on your agenda that you would want to look at? Why?
KO: I would like to bring in all of the different countries to meet because with all of these different scandals a lot of countries do not have faith in FIFA. So I would like to pull all of the different countries in and work on ways to find common ground and hopefully unite the organization.
PA: Who was your favorite player growing up?
KO: Michael Essien.
PA: You have been with D.C. United for a few years now. What is your favorite chant or song that you have heard the supporters sing?
KO: To be honest with you, they are all great songs.
PA: Who will win a World Cup first: Canada, Ghana, or the United States?
KO: I think all three countries have a good chance at winning the World Cup. But realistically Ghana or the United States have the best shot at winning the World Cup.
DC United
