Real Salt Lake Hosts Vancouver Whitecaps in Key MLS Clash

HERRIMAN, Utah (May 23, 2025) – Real Salt Lake (RSL) is set to face the Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. MT at America First Field. This is the second meeting between the two teams this month.

The match comes as RSL, currently 12th in the Western Conference, seeks to improve its record after a challenging start to the MLS season. Meanwhile, Vancouver, leading the Western Conference, hopes to end a streak of three consecutive draws.

RSL forward Diego Luna is expected to play a crucial role, leading the team with seven goals this season. Luna will soon depart for international duty, so this match offers him a chance to add to his tally.

Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni praised Luna’s efforts, noting that his contributions are vital as the team approaches a busy schedule in May, featuring three games in eight days. RSL has struggled at home this season, recording just two wins.

Last time the teams met, RSL suffered a 2-1 defeat at Vancouver, despite a late goal from Luna. The match saw Vancouver dominate much of the play, and RSL will need to step up its game on home turf.

Regarding the team’s form, Mastroeni emphasized the importance of Pride, one of the club’s core values. “We have to defend the idea of the club,” he stated. “Familiarity breeds confidence and we need to use that to our advantage at home.”

Vancouver will be without key players Ryan Gauld and Andres Cubas due to injury and suspension, respectively. However, striker Brian White is optimistic about addressing their recent performance issues. “We’re ready to respond,” White said. “We understand the challenge and we’re focused.”

The stakes are high for both teams as they look to secure vital points in their pursuit of playoff positions.