The energy in Sandy, Utah is electric as Real Salt Lake, the Claret-and-Cobalt, aims to capitalize on home turf, where they’ve notched six wins and two draws in their last ten outings since June 1. Their recent 2-1 triumph over Sporting Kansas City snapped a worrying three-game skid—their longest since August 2023—and reignited hope among the faithful. Diego Luna, fresh from international duty, wasted no time making an impact, netting his ninth league goal of the season, a club-best, while 18-year-old Zavier Gozo dazzled with his first multi-assist performance, including the decisive pass to Alex Katranis for the winner. The return of Braian Ojeda and the anticipated comeback of former USMNT star DeAndre Yedlin from suspension only bolsters Pablo Mastroeni’s options as the playoff race intensifies.
LAFC, under the stewardship of Steven Cherundolo, enters with confidence after a 4-2 victory at San Jose, powered by a Denis Bouanga hat-trick and a brace from global superstar Heung-Min Son. The Black and Gold have dominated recent head-to-heads, with seven wins in the last ten meetings against RSL, but the Utah side is unbeaten in their last three encounters, including last year’s unforgettable 3-0 “snowmaggedon” at America First Field.
Statistically, this matchup promises fireworks. Both teams are among the league’s highest-scoring outfits, and bookmakers favor a high-scoring contest with over 2.5 goals a popular pick. RSL’s home record stands at 8-8-3 across MLS, Champions Cup, and Leagues Cup play this year, while LAFC boasts an impressive nine-match unbeaten streak away from home. Star men abound: Bouanga leads LAFC with 10 goals, with Son, Javairo Dilrosun, and Nathan Ordaz each contributing two. For RSL, Luna’s ten goals across all competitions this season have shattered his previous career high, and the club’s relentless attacking ethos—scoring first in 19 of 33 matches—has kept them in the thick of the playoff hunt.
Pablo Mastroeni’s tenure at RSL has been marked by resilience and upward trajectory: since taking charge in August 2021, the former U.S. international has guided the club to increased points and higher finishes each year, eyeing a fifth consecutive postseason appearance—an achievement matched by few in MLS history. With the regular season winding down and every point vital, Wednesday’s showdown is more than a game; it’s a test of character, ambition, and the indomitable spirit that defines both Real Salt Lake and LAFC.
Fans can catch all the action on Apple TV+ / MLS Season Pass, with English and Spanish commentary, or tune into KSL Sports Radio for the local call. As the sun sets over the Wasatch Front, expect a spectacle—where playoff dreams are on the line, and legends are waiting to be made.