Real Salt Lake - New York City FC
Real Salt Lake and New York City FC seek stability at America First Field
Can Real Salt Lake find defensive cohesion as they host New York City FC at America First Field on 13 September 2026 for matchday 25? The home side enters this contest following a difficult run, including a 2-1 defeat to Houston Dynamo FC. The expected XI for Real Salt Lake sees Rafael Cabral in goal supported by a defensive line featuring DeAndre Yedlin and Lukas Engel, though the absence of Stijn Spierings through injury complicates their midfield balance. They will look to Jason Shokalook and Aiden Hezarkhani to provide the necessary attacking spark against a visiting side that has also struggled to find consistency.
New York City FC arrives in Utah after a narrow 2-1 loss to the New England Revolution. With Keaton Parks sidelined, the visitors rely on the midfield trio of Andres Perea, Aiden O'Neill, and James Sands to control the tempo. Matt Freese remains the expected starter in goal, tasked with anchoring a defense that has faced significant pressure in recent weeks. Given that their last meeting in June 2023 ended in a goalless draw, both teams will be eager to break the deadlock and secure a vital result in the Major League Soccer standings.
