MLS Match Preview: Colorado Rapids (4-5-4) vs. Real Salt Lake (4-7-2)

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The Rocky Mountain Cup rivalry returns as Colorado Rapids (10th in Western Conference, 16 points) host Real Salt Lake (11th in Western Conference, 14 points) at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Both teams are struggling to find form, with Colorado on a three-match losing streak and RSL winless in their last three road games.

Team Form & Standings

  • Colorado Rapids (4-4-5, 16 PTS) – Colorado has lost three straight matches, most recently falling 2-0 to San Diego FC. They have struggled offensively, scoring one goal or fewer in seven matches this season.
  • Real Salt Lake (3-5-5, 14 PTS) – RSL played to a 0-0 draw against Portland Timbers in their last match. They have struggled in attack, scoring just 13 goals in 13 matches, the fourth-lowest total in the Western Conference.

Colorado won the last meeting between these teams, securing a 3-2 victory at home in 2024. However, RSL has won three of their last four visits to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, keeping clean sheets in two of those victories.

Key Players to Watch

Colorado Rapids

  • Djordje Mihailovic (MF) – Leads Colorado with five goals and three assists, but missed a penalty in their last match.
  • Rafael Navarro (FW) – Has five goals, providing attacking firepower.
  • Zach Steffen (GK) – Leads the Western Conference with 48 saves, keeping Colorado competitive despite their struggles.

Real Salt Lake

  • Willy Agada (FW) – Recently returned to the lineup and is expected to be a key attacking presence.
  • Justen Glad (DF) – Brings leadership to RSL’s defense, which has improved in recent weeks.
  • Diego Luna (MF) – A creative force in midfield, looking to spark RSL’s attack.

Game Strategy & Predictions

  • Colorado Rapids’ Game Plan:
    • Improve attacking efficiency after scoring just one goal in their last three matches.
    • Utilize Mihailovic and Navarro’s finishing ability to break down RSL’s defense.
    • Maintain defensive discipline, as RSL has struggled to score consistently.
  • Real Salt Lake’s Game Plan:
  • End their three-match road winless streak by regaining attacking momentum.
  • Leverage Agada and Luna’s creativity to challenge Colorado’s backline.
  • Exploit Colorado’s inconsistency, especially in transition defense.

MATCH ODDS

Colorado Rapids + 105         Draw + 260         Real Salt Lake + 205

Over 2.5 – 150                   Under 2.5 + 120

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 16, 2025