RSL Eyes Playoff Surge in Showdown Against Colorado Rapids

HERRIMAN, Utah (Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025) – Real Salt Lake (RSL) is set to host the Colorado Rapids in a critical matchup this Saturday at America First Field. With the 2025 MLS playoffs approaching, RSL must secure a multi-goal victory to reclaim the Rocky Mountain Cup and propel itself into playoff contention.

Sitting in 11th place in the Western Conference, RSL, with a record of 11-16-4 and 37 points, finds itself one point behind the eighth-seeded Rapids (11-14-7, 40 points). A win by two or more goals is crucial, as it would not only mark the Claret-and-Cobalt’s first back-to-back wins since mid-July but could also boost their playoff chances significantly.

Real Salt Lake’s last game saw a 3-1 triumph over Austin FC, marked by a first-half goal from Paraguayan midfielder Braian Ojeda. He has been instrumental this season, now holding five goals across all competitions, and is central to RSL’s strategy against the Rapids. “We have to keep building on our recent success,” Ojeda said. “Every game is a final for us now.”

RSL’s Diego Luna leads the team with 10 goals and has been essential in setting up plays, providing two assists in the recent win over Austin. The match will not only be a chance for RSL to regain the cup but also an opportunity to secure a home play-in game for the playoffs, should they maintain or improve their current form.

Commenting on the upcoming rivalry match, head coach Pablo Mastroeni emphasized the importance of both the Rocky Mountain Cup and the playoff race. “Winning the Rocky Mountain Cup is a tradition for us, but right now, every point matters for our playoff position,” Mastroeni stated during a press press conference.

As RSL prepares for the match on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. MT, fans are encouraged to attend the Fan Appreciation Match as RSL aims to rally its supporters and players for this pivotal moment in the season. Tickets remain available for purchase.

With just three games remaining in the regular season and an upcoming match against Seattle on October 11, the stakes could not be higher. The Claret-and-Cobalt look to continue their home success where they hold a 7-3-2 record at America First Field since June. A strong performance Saturday is vital for RSL’s playoff aspirations and to reclaim the Rocky Mountain Cup for the fourth time in five years.