Real Salt Lake vs. Los Angeles FC Prediction, Match Preview, and Betting Tips, 26 June 2025 - bettingexpert

On the 26th of June 2025, Major League Soccer sees Real Salt Lake hosting Los Angeles FC in what promises to be an intriguing clash. As we enter Round 19, the stakes are high for both teams, albeit for different reasons. Real Salt Lake, currently positioned 23rd in the standings with 18 points, will look to make a significant dent in their recent inconsistent form under the guidance of Pablo Mastroeni. Meanwhile, Los Angeles FC, sitting at 13th place with 26 points, aims to climb higher and secure their spot for the playoffs, with Steve Cherundolo leading the charge.

For Real Salt Lake, this match is not just another fixture. The team needs to bounce back from their patchy form displayed in their last five games (WLDLL). Playing in front of their home crowd at America First Field could provide that much-needed edge. Their last home victory over DC United, which ended 2-0, should give them a nice confidence boost. Key man Diego Luna, who has netted 8 goals this season, will again be pivotal if they are to secure a favorable result.

On the other hand, Los Angeles FC comes into this match on the back of a mixed bag of results (LLWWD). Despite recent setbacks in the FIFA Club World Cup, their domestic form has been more promising with wins against Sporting Kansas City and a hard-fought draw against CF Montreal. Denis Bouanga, their top scorer with 8 goals, will be the man to watch. Although they failed to win their last two matches in the Club World Cup, their MLS form could see them as favorites in this matchup.

In terms of suspensions and injuries, Real Salt Lake will miss Matthew Bell, Javain Brown, Zac MacMath, and Emeka Eneli, all expected to return in early July. Los Angeles FC’s Cengiz Under and Nathan Ordaz are also unavailable but likely to return soon. These absences could play a crucial role in how the game pans out.

Historically, the fixtures between these two have been fiercely contested. The last time these two met, Real Salt Lake emerged with a 3-0 home victory. However, LAFC historically has had the upper hand more often than not.

Based on current form and overall squad strength, Los Angeles FC appears to have the advantage. They boast a stronger offensive capability, scoring more goals per match on average, and have not lost in 9 consecutive matches in this tournament. This makes them a recommended bet to win this clash.

The weather forecast and referee details for the match are still pending, but the atmosphere at America First Field is sure to be electric, promising an exciting contest. In conclusion, while Real Salt Lake will look to take advantage of their home ground, Los Angeles FC’s better form and attacking prowess make them the favorites to clinch the win.

Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Prediction & Betting Tip

Recommended Bet: Los Angeles FC to Win

Given the recent performances and the comparison between the two teams, Los Angeles FC appears more likely to take home the three points. Here’s a breakdown of why this is a smart bet:

Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Prediction
Betting Tip	Odds
Los Angeles FC to Win	Not provided

• Better Form: LAFC has shown better overall form in their last five matches, with two wins and two draws, compared to Real Salt Lake’s one win, one draw, and three losses.
• Stronger Offense: Los Angeles FC has a stronger offensive unit, averaging 1.40 goals per match in their last five games, compared to Real Salt Lake’s 1.00 goals.
• Historical Edge: LAFC has a history of outperforming Real Salt Lake in previous encounters, exemplified by a notable 4-0 victory.

With these factors in mind, backing Los Angeles FC seems like a good call for this match.

Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Odds

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Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
Real Salt Lake	Not provided
Draw	Not provided
Los Angeles FC	Not provided

Although the exact odds haven’t been provided, bettors might still find value in backing Los Angeles FC due to their stronger form and historical edge. Both teams have had differing trajectories this season; with Los Angeles FC sitting comfortably in 13th place while Real Salt Lake struggles at 23rd.

Key Factors Influencing the Odds:

• Form: LAFC has demonstrated a stronger track record in recent matches, with two wins and two draws from their last five games.
• Offensive Performance: LAFC’s ability to score more goals on average compared to Real Salt Lake.
• Historical Matches: Previous encounters have shown LAFC’s ability to dominate, particularly away from home.

Hence, backing Los Angeles FC could be considered a reasonable bet based on their current momentum and past performances.

Real Salt Lake Team Analysis

Real Salt Lake Recent Performance

Home team	Away team	Date	Competition	Result
Real Salt Lake	DC United	2025-06-15	Major League Soccer	2-0 (Win)
LA Galaxy	Real Salt Lake	2025-06-01	Major League Soccer	2-0 (Loss)
Austin FC	Real Salt Lake	2025-05-29	Major League Soccer	1-1 (Draw)
Real Salt Lake	Vancouver Whitecaps	2025-05-25	Major League Soccer	2-3 (Loss)
Colorado Rapids	Real Salt Lake	2025-05-18	Major League Soccer	1-0 (Loss)

Recent Form: WLDLL

Real Salt Lake has had a mixed run of results recently, managing only one win in their last five matches. Their most recent performance saw them secure a solid 2-0 victory over DC United, which was a much-needed uplift. However, they have also suffered three losses and managed a single draw in this period.

In these five matches, the team has averaged 1.00 goals per game while keeping just one clean sheet. Defensively, they have struggled, conceding more than they have scored, with high-profile absences in their squad likely contributing to recent difficulties.

Their next match against Los Angeles FC presents an opportunity to build on their recent win, though they’ll need to be vigilant on defense and aim to capitalize on their goal-scoring chances.

Real Salt Lake Key Players

Real Salt Lake will be looking to their key players to make a significant impact as they face Los Angeles FC. Leading the charge is Diego Luna, the team’s top scorer with 8 goals this season. His ability to find the back of the net will be crucial, especially given the overall struggle to score consistently.

Potential Key Individual Battles:

• Diego Luna vs Eddie Segura: Luna’s attacking prowess will be tested against the defensive capabilities of LAFC’s Eddie Segura. This clash could be one of the key defining factors of the match.
• William Agada vs Hugo Lloris: Agada, leading the line for Real Salt Lake, comes up against the experienced Hugo Lloris. Agada’s capability to convert chances will be crucial in breaking down LAFC’s defence.

Midfield Orchestrators:

• Pablo Ruiz and Nelson Palacio: The midfield duo of Ruiz and Palacio will have a massive role in controlling the tempo and providing the necessary support for both the defense and the attackers.

Expected lineup for Real Salt Lake:

• Goalkeeper: Rafael Cabral
• Right back: Noel Caliskan
• Right center back: Justen Glad
• Left center back: Brayan Vera
• Left back: Alexandros Katranis
• Right defensive midfielder: Nelson Palacio
• Left defensive midfielder: Pablo Ruiz
• Right wing: Johnny Russell
• Attacking midfielder: Zavier Gozo
• Left wing: Diogo Gonçalves
• Center forward: William Agada

The mix of experienced and young players in the lineup suggests a balanced approach, but the team will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.

Real Salt Lake Suspensions & Injuries

Real Salt Lake currently has several notable injuries, which could impact their performance against Los Angeles FC.

Player	Injury	Expected return
Matthew Bell	Hamstring Injury	Early July 2025
Javain Brown	Knee injury	Early July 2025
Zac MacMath	Shoulder injury	Early July 2025
Emeka Eneli	Foot injury	Early July 2025

These absences may disrupt the team’s rhythm, with key positions needing replacements. The injuries include a mix of defensive and goalkeeper issues, which might force Pablo Mastroeni to make tactical adjustments. The impact of missing experienced players like Javain Brown and Zac MacMath could present a significant challenge, particularly in goal and defence.

Therefore, maintaining defensive solidity against an in-form LAFC may require Real Salt Lake’s other fit players to step up, ensuring they cover for their injured teammates effectively.

Real Salt Lake Tactics and Formation

Real Salt Lake Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: William Agada
• Midfield Trio: Pablo Ruiz, Zavier Gozo, Johnny Russell
• Defensive Setup: Cabral in goal, with Caliskan and Katranis on the flanks, and Glad and Vera at centre-back.
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on structured defence and quick transitions.

Pablo Mastroeni has consistently deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation for Real Salt Lake. This setup focuses on a blend of solid defensive play and dynamic attacking options.

In goal, Rafael Cabral has been a reliable presence. The defensive line typically features Noel Caliskan and Alexandros Katranis as full-backs, with Justen Glad and Brayan Vera forming the core of the defence. Despite a few injuries to key players, this backline has shown resilience.

In the midfield, the double pivot of Nelson Palacio and Pablo Ruiz is crucial. Ruiz, known for his vision and passing range, often initiates attacks, while Palacio provides defensive stability.

The attacking midfield trio of Johnny Russell, Zavier Gozo, and Diogo Gonçalves provides creativity and pace. Russell, with his experience, often serves as the playmaker, while Gozo’s energy and Gonçalves’ dribbling skills add a dynamic edge.

William Agada leads the line as the centre forward, relying on his physicality and goal-scoring instincts to trouble opposition defences.

Real Salt Lake’s notable strategy involves a structured defensive approach, aiming to maintain solidity at the back and hit opponents on the counter-attack. They often seek to exploit transitional phases, especially between the 61st and 75th minutes, where their quick counter-attacks can be particularly lethal.

With Diego Luna leading as the top scorer, their offensive play is expected to revolve around creative build-up through midfield and astute finishes in the final third.

Los Angeles FC Team Analysis

Los Angeles FC Recent Performance

• Recent Form: LLWWD

Los Angeles FC has been showing decent form lately, with two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five matches. While their recent outings in the FIFA Club World Cup saw them struggling a bit, their Major League Soccer form has been quite solid. They currently sit in 13th position in the league table with a total of 26 points, indicating a mid-table placement but with potential to climb higher.

Despite their stumbles in international competition, they have maintained a consistent offensive strategy, scoring an average of 1.40 goals per match over their last five games. Defensively, consistency remains a challenge, as they’ve failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five fixtures. Their ability to score goals, however, has been a highlight of their performances.

Here’s a look at their last five results:

Home team	Away team	Date	Competition	Result
Los Angeles FC	Esperance	2025-06-20	FIFA Club World Cup Grp. D	0-1 (Loss)
Chelsea	Los Angeles FC	2025-06-16	FIFA Club World Cup Grp. D	2-0 (Loss)
Los Angeles FC	Sporting Kansas City	2025-06-09	Major League Soccer	3-1 (Win)
Los Angeles FC	CF America	2025-06-01	FIFA Club World Cup Qualification	1-1 (Extra time: 1-0) (Win)
CF Montreal	Los Angeles FC	2025-05-24	Major League Soccer	2-2 (Draw)

Given their attacking prowess and recent solid performances in the league, Los Angeles FC is likely to pose a significant threat to Real Salt Lake. With the advantage of having key players fit and ready, they will look to leverage their offensive strategy and continue their climb up the Major League Soccer standings.

Los Angeles FC Key Players

Los Angeles FC boasts a roster filled with influential players, and several names will likely play a crucial role in the upcoming match against Real Salt Lake.

Denis Bouanga

Bouanga, the top scorer for Los Angeles FC with 8 goals this season, will be one to watch. His knack for finding the back of the net could prove decisive against Real Salt Lake’s defense.

Olivier Giroud

With vast experience and a physical presence up front, Giroud adds significant depth to LAFC’s attacking options. His aerial prowess will be pivotal in set-piece situations.

Hugo Lloris

The veteran French goalkeeper is essential for LAFC’s defensive setup. His leadership and shot-stopping ability can be the difference-maker, especially given LAFC’s recent struggle to keep clean sheets.

Midfield Dynamism

The midfield trio of Marco Delgado, Igor Jesus, and Timothy Tillman will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game. They need to disrupt Real Salt Lake’s midfield while creating opportunities for their forwards.

Expected Individual Battles

• Denis Bouanga vs Justen Glad: Bouanga’s pace against Glad’s defensive skills will be a key matchup.
• Olivier Giroud vs Brayan Vera: Giroud’s strength and heading ability against Vera will be critical during set-pieces.
• Timothy Tillman vs Pablo Ruiz: The midfield battle between Tillman and Ruiz could determine which team controls the center of the park.

Expected lineup for Los Angeles FC:

• Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris
• Defenders: Sergi Palencia, Marlon Santos, Eddie Segura, Ryan Hollingshead
• Midfielders: Marco Delgado, Igor Jesus, Timothy Tillman
• Forwards: Yaw Yeboah, Jeremy Ebobisse, Denis Bouanga

With such a diverse range of talent and experience, LAFC will aim to exploit their strengths and secure a vital win against Real Salt Lake.

Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Prediction & Betting Tip

The Major League Soccer showdown between Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles FC is set to be a riveting contest. While Real Salt Lake has struggled recently, positioned 23rd with 18 points, Los Angeles FC, sitting 13th with 26 points, appear to have the upper hand. LAFC has shown better form with 2 wins and 3 draws in their last 5 matches. Our recommendation for this game: Los Angeles FC to Win.

Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Odds

Currently, there are no bookmaker odds available for this match. However, given the recent form and overall performance, LAFC is expected to be the favorite.

Real Salt Lake Team Analysis

Real Salt Lake Recent Performance

Real Salt Lake’s recent form hasn’t been impressive:

• Real Salt Lake – DC United 2 – 0
• LA Galaxy – Real Salt Lake 2 – 0
• Austin FC – Real Salt Lake 1 – 1
• Real Salt Lake – Vancouver Whitecaps 2 – 3
• Colorado Rapids – Real Salt Lake 1 – 0

Real Salt Lake Key Players

Diego Luna

Luna has been a bright spot for Real Salt Lake, leading the team with 8 goals this season. His performance will be crucial if Real Salt Lake is to secure a positive result.

Johnny Russell

Known for his creativity and pace down the right wing, Russell’s ability to deliver accurate crosses and create scoring chances will be vital.

Real Salt Lake Suspensions & Injuries

• Matthew Bell: Hamstring Injury (Early July 2025)
• Javain Brown: Knee Injury (Early July 2025)
• Zac MacMath: Shoulder Injury (Early July 2025)
• Emeka Eneli: Foot Injury (Early July 2025)

Real Salt Lake Tactics and Formation

Real Salt Lake typically lines up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on solid defensive structure while looking to break quickly on the counter.

Expected line-up:

• Goalkeeper: Rafael Cabral
• Right back: Noel Caliskan
• Right center back: Justen Glad
• Left center back: Brayan Vera
• Left back: Alexandros Katranis
• Right defensive midfielder: Nelson Palacio
• Left defensive midfielder: Pablo Ruiz
• Right wing: Johnny Russell
• Attacking midfielder: Zavier Gozo
• Left wing: Diogo Gonçalves
• Center forward: William Agada

Los Angeles FC Team Analysis

Los Angeles FC Recent Performance

LAFC’s recent results reflect a balanced performance:

• Los Angeles FC – Esperance 0 – 1
• Chelsea – Los Angeles FC 2 – 0
• Los Angeles FC – Sporting Kansas City 3 – 1
• Los Angeles FC – CF America 1 – 1 (Extra time: 1 – 0)
• CF Montreal – Los Angeles FC 2 – 2

Los Angeles FC Key Players

Denis Bouanga

Tied as the top scorer with 8 goals, Bouanga’s speed and finishing ability make him a constant threat to any defense.

Olivier Giroud

With his experience and physical presence, Giroud remains a pivotal figure in LAFC’s attacking setup.

Hugo Lloris

His experience and leadership at the back could be crucial for LAFC, especially in high-pressure situations.

Los Angeles FC Suspensions & Injuries

• Cengiz Under: Leg Injury (Early July 2025)
• Nathan Ordaz: Concussion (1-2 weeks)

Los Angeles FC Tactics and Formation

LAFC typically employs a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on controlling the midfield and pressing high up the pitch.

Expected line-up:

• Goalkeeper: Hugo Lloris
• Right back: Sergi Palencia
• Right center back: Marlon Santos
• Left center back: Eddie Segura
• Left back: Ryan Hollingshead
• Right central midfielder: Marco Delgado
• Central midfielder: Igor Jesus
• Left central midfielder: Timothy Tillman
• Right forward: Yaw Yeboah
• Center forward: Jeremy Ebobisse
• Left forward: Denis Bouanga

Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Head-to-Head Statistics

• Last time these teams met, Real Salt Lake won 3-0 at home.
• Recent encounters have shown a mix of results, but LAFC has not lost in the last 9 Major League Soccer matches.

Venue and Weather

Venue: America First Field. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it provides a great home advantage for Real Salt Lake. Weather details are currently unavailable but can be expected to be typical of late June conditions.

Given the current form and squad strengths, LAFC appears to have the edge in this matchup. However, Real Salt Lake at home cannot be underestimated, making for an intriguing contest.

Los Angeles FC Tactics and Formation

Los Angeles FC’s Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Denis Bouanga
• Midfield Trio: Marco Delgado, Igor Jesus, Timothy Tillman
• Defensive Strength: Although no clean sheets in the last five games, Hugo Lloris brings invaluable experience and leadership in goal.
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and control in the midfield to stifle opposition attacks and break quickly.

Los Angeles FC typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on a balanced approach between solid defensive organization and quick transitions into attack. Hugo Lloris is pivotal at the back, known for his shot-stopping ability and command of the defense.

The backline, with Sergi Palencia and Ryan Hollingshead as full-backs and Eddie Segura and Marlon Santos as the central defensive partnership, aims to keep the opposition’s forward threats at bay.

In the midfield, Marco Delgado, Igor Jesus, and Timothy Tillman play crucial roles. They thrive on dominating possession, breaking up opposition plays, and providing a solid base for launching attacks. This trio’s versatility helps LAFC control the game’s tempo and create numerous scoring opportunities.

Up front, Denis Bouanga is the team’s main threat, tied as the top scorer with 8 goals. His pace and clinical finishing make him a nightmare for defenders. Supporting him in attack are Jeremy Ebobisse, known for his physicality and aerial prowess, and Yaw Yeboah, whose speed and agility add dynamism to LAFC’s forward line.

The team utilizes high pressing and quick ball transitions to exploit spaces left by the opposition. They are particularly dangerous around the 61-75 minute mark, often catching defenses off guard with their relentless attacking play.

Overall, LAFC’s blend of experience, tactical nous, and attacking flair makes them a formidable side poised to dominate the match against Real Salt Lake.

Real Salt Lake vs Los Angeles FC Head-to-Head Statistics

Home team	Away team	Date	Competition	Result
Los Angeles FC	Real Salt Lake	2024-07-18	Major League Soccer	1-1 (Draw)
Real Salt Lake	Los Angeles FC	2024-03-02	Major League Soccer	3-0 (Win)
Los Angeles FC	Real Salt Lake	2023-10-02	Major League Soccer	0-1 (Loss)
Los Angeles FC	Real Salt Lake	2023-08-09	Leagues Cup Final Stage	4-0 (Loss)
Real Salt Lake	Los Angeles FC	2023-05-14	Major League Soccer	0-3 (Loss)

A look at the recent head-to-head matchups reveals a fairly balanced rivalry between Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles FC. In their last five meetings, Real Salt Lake have secured two wins, while Los Angeles FC have also won two, with one match ending in a draw.

Real Salt Lake’s most notable recent victory came in March 2024, when they dominated at home with a 3-0 win. However, they also suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat against LAFC in the Leagues Cup Final Stage in August 2023.

It’s also worth noting that their most recent encounter in July 2024 ended in a 1-1 draw, showcasing the competitive nature of these fixtures.

Overall, these stats suggest that both teams are capable of pulling off significant results against each other, making their upcoming clash an intriguing matchup.

Odds accurate as of 24.06.2025 02:34, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.