On the first ever edition of Open Net Notes, we take a look at Real Salt Lake’s 2026 schedule and see if the Claret and Cobalt have what it takes.
Real Salt Lake has wrapped up the first round of the preseason, and the team looks good, but definitely has some things to work on. RSL has a tough schedule to start the season. Four of the first four matches against top tier clubs. The club’s first five matches are at Vancouver, home against Seattle, at Atlanta, home against Austin, and at San Diego. RSL has a lot of expectations this year, including another win against Seattle, a club who has only won on Utah soil once.
The Claret and Cobalt are ready to make an impact, and they have a lot of pieces together. There are a few big games that could be traps, but RSL has what it takes. Now in a 34-game season with the kind of talent that MLS has, going unbeaten all season is nearly impossible. So yes, there are going to be hiccups, and there are going to be losses, even frustrating draws. But RSL has what it takes, and the goal is clear: win MLS Cup. RSL has a guantlet of a first five weeks, but in the MLS, anything can happen.
Real Salt Lake will be playing against familiar foes Colorado and Sporting Kansas City. Inter Miami will also be coming to Utah for the first time ever. RSL will also see two matches against Portland, who knocked RSL out of the playoffs last year. RSL will also host Seattle in Matchday Two, in a stadium the Sounders have only won one regular season match. RSL has a good team this year, and Diego Luna will most likely be at the forefront again. RSL has a clean slate, and this could be a big year.
RSL has been through a lot as a club, but one thing remains clear: The Claret and Cobalt are not giving up. Real Salt Lake is a true power team, because no matter what, they are going to keep fighting. Wins aren’t always guaranteed, but no matter what, if RSL keeps fighting, the wins will come. This is a team that I am really excited about, and it will be a fun season in 2026.
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