Real Salt Lake looks to keep the unbeaten streak alive at home at America First Field against Houston.
Real Salt Lake has hit a season first. They beat DC United 2-0, drew with Sporting Kansas City, and beat Saint Louis 3-2. That is three straight matches without a loss. Real Salt Lake’s attack is finally finding its stride, and goals are being scored. The season is turning around, and they are showing promise. Forwards Zavier Gozo and Johnny Russel are showing promise.
This match is headlined with the return of Diego Luna, who returns from International Duty. Luna has eight goals for Real Salt Lake, which leads the club. RSL has a few strong players in attack, and the midfield is also coming together well. Goalkeeper Rafael Cabral is making spectacular saves, and despite taking knocks, he is going strong and hasn’t missed a second in all competitions.
RSL does have a struggling backline. Goals are being allowed match after match, and there is only so much Rafael Cabral can do. RSL’s backline issues have carried over from last year, and a big problem is the lack of depth. RSL does not have a lot of backline options, with injuries and transfers decimating defensive depth. RSL does have a transfer window coming soon, so that may be an opportunity to get a defender or two.
The last time Real Salt Lake played Houston, they won 2-1 in Texas. It was the first win for RSL in Houston since 2018. Diego Luna had a goal and an assist. RSL played well, and the offside trap gave the Dynamo problems. Cabral made a few key saves in that match, and it is only a matter of time before RSL breaks out.
Keys to the match: vs Houston
- Lock down the backline: RSL needs to stay touch tight defensively. Houston has too many weapons in attack for RSL to make sloppy mistakes.
- Take your chances: RSL has been creating chances, but the real issue is their struggles to finish them. RSL needs to finish chances to keep the unbeaten streak alive.
- Hit on the counterattack: RSL this season has been deadly on the counterattack. If they can transition quickly, Houston could be in trouble.
In conclusion, RSL has a way to win this match and take all three points at home. RSL can complete a regular-season sweep of the Dynamo and it will all come down to defense, taking chances, and coutering fast. It will be a good game, and I am looking forward to it.
Real Salt Lake will be in action tonight at 7:330 PM on MLS Season Pass.
