Real Salt Lake Faces Crucial Home Stand Against LAFC in Playoff Push
Real Salt Lake (RSL) returns to America First Field this Wednesday, September 17, 2025, to host Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) in a pivotal Major League Soccer (MLS) regular-season match. With a coveted 2025 postseason qualification slot on the line, the Claret-and-Cobalt will need a strong showing at home against a tough Western Conference opponent.
Key Match Details
The game kicks off at 7:30p MT and will be broadcast on Apple TV+ / MLS Season Pass. Local radio coverage will be available on KSL Sports Radio (1160 AM / 97.5 FM) in English and 102.3 KDUT FM / 106.3 FM KBMG in Spanish. The match continues a critical three-game week following Saturday's 2-1 victory over Kansas City.
RSL's Recent Performance and Key Players
In their recent home win, RSL saw the return of key players from international duty, including Diego Luna, who scored the opening goal. Zavier Gozo, an 18-year-old Utah native, secured his first multi-assist match. DeAndre Yedlin is expected to return to action this week.
Luna's goal was his ninth of the season in MLS play, bringing his total to 10 across all competitions. RSL has been strong when scoring first, recording nine wins and four draws in such situations this year.
LAFC's Perspective
LAFC arrives in Utah amidst a busy schedule, currently holding fifth place in the Western Conference. A win would push them into sole possession of fourth place. Son Heung-Min and Denis Bouanga are key players to watch for LAFC, with Bouanga recently scoring a hat trick against San Jose.
The Black & Gold are in the midst of a stretch of games that includes six road matches. They are now unbeaten in their last eight MLS road matches, highlighting their strength away from home.
Playoff Implications and RSL's Path Forward
Currently in 10th place in the Western Conference, Real Salt Lake is just one point behind San Jose for a playoff spot. Coach Pablo Mastroeni acknowledges the need for a strong finish to the season. The team faces a tough test against LAFC, followed by crucial home games against Austin and Colorado.
"We have to almost win out," Mastroeni admitted.
RSL hopes to continue their recent home form, where they boast six wins and two draws in their last 10 games, looking to secure a Western Conference playoff spot for the fifth consecutive season. Tickets are available at www.RSL.com/tickets.
Match Preview: LAFC at Real Salt Lake
Wednesday’s match in Utah was originally scheduled for May but was pushed back because of LAFC’s appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup Play-In match on May 31. LAFC will face RSL again this weekend at BMO Stadium, on Sunday, Sept. 21.
Odds of making the playoffs
Even after beating Sporting Kansas City over the weekend, RSL currently has a 48.6% chance of earning a wildcard spot and a 36% shot at the playoffs, according to Opta’s TheAnalyst.com.
“We have to almost win out,” Mastroeni admitted.
