Real Salt Lake
Western Conference members who met for the 2009 MLS Cup title, where RSL claimed victory via penalty shootout.
Real Salt Lake began play on April 2, 2005. The club defeated the LA Galaxy in a penalty shootout to win the 2009 MLS Cup. RSL previously played home games at Rice-Eccles Stadium from 2005 to 2007 before moving to Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy in 2008.
- Rivalry_Type
- MLS Western Conference
- Notable_Figures
- Nick Rimando, Kyle Beckerman
- Status
- Active
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
The club started with a scoreless draw against the MetroStars and scored its first goal on the road against the LA Galaxy. In 2008, RSL defeated Chivas USA in the Western Conference semifinals before losing to the New York Red Bulls in the MLS Cup final. Nick Rimando joined as a veteran goalkeeper pre-season in 2007, while Jason Kreis retired from playing to become head coach that same year.
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
Founded as an expansion team in 2004, RSL began play in 2005 under initial owner Dave Checketts. The club shares America First Field with Utah Royals FC and previously played at Rice-Eccles Stadium on the University of Utah campus. Ownership changed hands from Checketts to Dell Loy Hansen in 2013, then to Ryan Smith and David Blitzer before April 2025, when Miller Sports + Entertainment acquired a controlling interest.
Did You Know?
- Real Salt Lake was the first American club to reach the CONCACAF Champions League final under the group stage format in 2010–11.
- Jason Kreis retired as a player immediately upon being named head coach in May 2007 after John Ellinger was fired.
- RSL's first home match was a 0-0 draw against the Colorado Rapids on April 16, 2005; their first home victory came on May 14, 2005, against the Kansas City Wizards.
- The club's fully owned USL affiliate, Real Monarchs, won the USL Championship in 2019.
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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