The playoff hopes remain alive for the Claret-and-Cobalt after a decisive 3–1 victory over Austin FC. The win came at a crucial time, following back-to-back losses to LAFC. Securing all three points was a vital step in keeping the team in the hunt for a Congerence-best fifth consecutive postseason berth.
Real Salt Lake controlled the tempo of the match from start to finish, dominating key areas of play. The squad held 53% of possession, dictating the pace and keeping Austin FC on the back foot for most of the game. RSL’s sharpness on the ball was equally impressive, with an 86% pass accuracy over the full 90 minutes, a testament to its cohesion throughout the field. The consistent control allowed the home squad to dictate the flow and create high-quality chances throughout the night.
The match could not have been won without several standout performances, highlighted by a trio of different goal scorers. Veteran defender DeAndre Yedlin netted his first goal in an RSL jersey, one which turned out to be the game-winner, while striker Victor Olatunji and Paraguayan international Braian Ojeda also found the back of the net. The spotlight, without a doubt, shines on the trio of RSL goal scorers.
First RSL Goal for Yedlin Comes at America First Field
Yedlin made a memorable mark in front of the home crowd, scoring his first-ever goal in an RSL jersey. The play began with a sharp run from Portuguese DP Diogo Gonçalves into the box, drawing defenders before laying the ball off wide to Yedlin. The veteran defender made no mistake, driving a right-footed shot into the bottom-right corner of the net.
The goal marked Yedlin’s second career goal in MLS and his sixth overall across all competitions in 222 games for Seattle, Miami, Cincinnati and RSL. It was a moment of composure and precision from the experienced fullback, and a special one to share with the home fans at America First Field.
The recent acquisition from FC Cincinnati has proven to be a valuable one. Yedlin brings an overwhelming amount of experience both on the pitch and in the locker room, serving as a veteran presence for a young and ambitious RSL squad. His ability to read opposing offenses, combined with his pace and vision in the attacking third, makes him a true dual threat.
Not only does Yedlin provide defensive stability, but he also plays a key role in RSL’s attacking build-up and presence in the final third. His recent goal, a composed, right-footed finish into the corner of the net, was a prime example of his versatility and ability to step up in crucial moments. With over a decade of professional experience spanning Major League Soccer and the prestigious English Premier League, Yedlin brings a level of pedigree and football IQ that is rare. His time with clubs like Newcastle United and Tottenham, in his international experience, has shaped him into a dynamic, well-rounded player.
As the end of the season approaches, his leadership, experience, and two-way play are set to become even more vital in Real Salt Lake’s push for a playoff berth.
Second-Half Strikes from Olatunji and Ojeda Seal the Victory
Real Salt Lake left no doubt in the second half, with two emphatic goals that padded the score sheet and secured a vital 3-1 victory. Ojeda opened the scoring with a clinical strike, followed shortly after Yedlin’s with Olatunji firing home a 1v1 finish against the Austin FC keeper to extend the lead. Both goals showcased RSL’s attacking quality and put the game out of reach for Austin FC.
Ojeda secured his second goal of the 2025 MLS campaign and his fifth across all competitions this year on a special night dedicated to celebrating Hispanic and Latin Heritage.
Hispanic and Latin Heritage Night, which honors the culture and home countries of RSL players and staff, provided the perfect backdrop for Ojeda’s clinical finish. The Paraguayan’s goal not only showcased his continued impact on the field but also symbolized the pride and passion shared by many within the RSL squad and fanbase in Utah which is made up of a rich mixture of cultures and backgrounds.
The midfielder closed out the first half with a stunning left-footed strike in the 45th minute, shooting from outside the box and curling the ball into the left side of the net just before halftime. The goal was expertly set up by homegrown defender Justen Glad, who delivered the assist, his first of the 2025 season. Ojeda’s finish not only energized the team but also added extra significance to a night celebrating the rich culture and heritage of RSL’s diverse squad.
In just his first year with RSL, Nigerian forward Olatunji notched his second goal of the season, further proving his importance on the pitch and the reason the staff was eager to get him into their locker room. The strike was just another example of Olatunji showcasing his knack for finding the back of the net. His impact on the squad has been significant as he adapts to MLS and raises his game week after week.
The goal showcased his sharp finishing ability with a perfectly-placed finish, firing a right-footed shot from the center of the box into the bottom left corner of the net. The goal came off a perfectly timed ball from RSL’s creative playmaker, Diego Luna - affectionately known as the Moon Man - who notched his third primary assist on the year. Olatunji expertly controlled the pass, broke into a one-on-one situation with the keeper, and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom right corner to extend RSL’s lead.
The RSL victory was made even sweeter as the Club celebrated a perfect nine-point night, with the Utah Royals securing a 2-0 shutout over Bay FC in NWSL action and the MLS NEXT Pro side Monarchs earning a dominant 4-2 win to secure home-field advantage in the first round of MLS NEXT Pro playoffs, which begin Oct. 17.
Real Salt Lake remains at America First Field next Saturday, October 4th to take on the Colorado Rapids for the second and decisive match in the 2025 Rocky Mountain Cup series. The rivalry match marks the last home reg. season game of the 2025 campaign for the Claret-and-Cobalt. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM MT and tickets are available for purchase here.
