MLS Match Preview: New York Red Bulls (9-10-6) vs. Real Salt Lake (9-11-4)

Team Overview

New York Red Bulls

Record: 9–10–6 (10th in Eastern Conference)

Recent Form (All Competitions): D-D-W-L-L

Key Notes:

Just 1 win in last 8 MLS matches

Strong home form: 8 of 9 wins have come in Harrison

Scored in every home match this season (31 of 39 goals at home)

Unbeaten in last 4 home meetings vs RSL, with 3 clean sheets

Playoff streak (15 years) in jeopardy — 2 points below the line

Player to Watch:

A.J. Marcucci (GK) – rising star, 3-0-2 record in all competitions, 1 shutout

Real Salt Lake

Record: 9–11–4 (8th in Western Conference)

Recent Form (All Competitions): W-W-W-L-W

Key Notes:

4 wins in last 5 matches, including 2–1 vs San Jose

Only 1 loss in last 10 competitive fixtures

Away form improving: points in 3 of last 4 road games

100% win rate away when scoring multiple goals (only twice this season)

Haven’t won in New Jersey vs Red Bulls since 2011

Player to Watch:

Andrés Gómez – 3 goals in last 5 matches, key in transition play

Head-to-Head Snapshot

Last 5 Meetings	NY Red Bulls Wins	Draws	RSL Wins
	1	3	1

Recent meetings have been tight, with three draws and only one win apiece.

Tactical Breakdown

Red Bulls:

High press, vertical transitions

Vulnerable in defensive third when pressed

Set-piece threat at home

RSL:

Compact midfield, counter-attacking style

Struggles to break down low blocks

Dangerous when scoring first — have done so in 4 straight matches