Real Salt Lake
Royalty in the Rockies
Real Salt Lake (RSL) is an American professional soccer club based in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area. The club competes in Major League Soccer (MLS) as a member of the Western Conference. Founded in 2004, the club began play in 2005 as an expansion team.
- Rivalry_Type
- MLS Western Conference
- Notable_Figures
- Nick Rimando, Kyle Beckerman
- Status
- Active
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Real Salt Lake won the 2009 MLS Cup, defeating the LA Galaxy in a penalty shootout. The club finished as runners-up in the 2010 Supporters Shield, the 2013 U.S. Open Cup, and the 2013 MLS Cup. They also finished runners-up in the 2010–11 CONCACAF Champions League, becoming the first American club to reach the final under the tournament's group stage format. Their fully owned USL affiliate, Real Monarchs, won the USL Championship in 2019.
In Their Own Story
RSL's first home victory occurred on April 16, 2005, at Rice-Eccles Stadium against the Colorado Rapids in front of 25,287 fans. The team built around key players like Rimando and Kyle Beckerman to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in 2008. By 2009, they secured a near-perfect home record to reach the MLS Cup final.
Reader's Guide
The club plays its home games at America First Field in Sandy, Utah, which they share with Utah Royals FC. Before moving there, they played at Rice-Eccles Stadium from 2005 to 2007. The team is currently led by head coach Pablo Mastroeni. In the 2008 playoffs, RSL advanced past Chivas USA in the first round before losing to the New York Red Bulls in the Western Conference final. Their first home match was on April 16, 2005, a victory over the Colorado Rapids, with Brian Dunseth scoring the winning goal.
Did You Know?
- The name 'Real' means 'royal' in English and was chosen by initial owner Dave Checketts to follow European-style naming conventions and potentially foster a partnership with Real Madrid.
- RSL's first ever goal was scored by Jason Kreis in a road game against the LA Galaxy.
- Long-time captain Kyle Beckerman retired after the 2020 season, having played more regular season games than any outfield player in MLS history.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Real Salt Lake begin playing in MLS?
The club officially commenced its first season of competition on April 2, 2005. This launch initiated their ongoing competitive relationship with the LA Galaxy.
How did Real Salt Lake defeat the Galaxy for the championship?
RSL won the 2009 MLS Cup title by overcoming the LA Galaxy in a penalty shootout. This victory stands as one of the most significant moments in their rivalry history.
Where did Real Salt Lake play before moving to Sandy?
From 2005 to 2007, the team hosted home games at Rice-Eccles Stadium. They subsequently relocated to America First Field in Sandy for their matches.
Who are some notable figures associated with Real Salt Lake?
Legendary players such as Nick Rimando and Kyle Beckerman have been central to the club's identity. Their contributions helped establish RSL as a formidable Western Conference rival.
What is the current status of the Galaxy versus RSL rivalry?
The matchup remains an active fixture within the MLS Western Conference schedule today. Fans continue to regard these games as key events in the league calendar.
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