Wasatch Soccer Sentinel

The 2024 MLS playoffs have arrived. Real Salt Lake finished their season in 3rd place in the western conference, and with that result they host 6th place Minnesota United. Minnesota had a strong finish to their season, winning 4 of their last 5 games (plus a draw). These two teams have faced each other twice this season, both ending in ties. In the 2nd year of the best of 3 format playoff format, RSL will want to come away with a home win before heading to Saint Paul.

A rotating attack

Since the departure of Andres Gomez to France, we’ve seen a good deal of rotation in RSL’s attack. Yes, Chicho is still in the midst of his goal drought, but other places are contributing. With the addition of Goncalves and Marczuk, who starts, and who starts where, has been in constant flux. It’s hard to say who Pablo thinks are his best attacking 4, outside Luna and Chicho, but this game should provide some answers.

Silva

Philip Quinton left last week’s match in the first half and shockingly was not replaced by Marcelo Silva. Brayan Vera is serving his final suspension during this game (ironically for spitting on a Minnesota player a few games back). If both player are out, then Silva is the obvious starter along side Justen Glad. Yet, he didn’t replace Quinton. He is coming back from a longterm injury, but if he’s healthy enough to make the match day squad, his experience could be crucial during this game.

Right back

RSL’s right back situation has shifted a lot this season. Andrew Brody hasn’t been great, though not terrible on the whole. Bode Hidalgo has been injured. The recent addition of Javain Brown seems like the obviously starter and he was much improved over the Whitecaps, but had a number of terrible moments across several games that directly led to goals. His performance on the field has been up and down, and he’s certainly one to watch.

Player availability

Out: Kevin Bonilla (Knee), Pablo Ruiz (Knee) Questionable: Hidalgo (Groin), Philip Quinton (Hamstring) Suspended: Brayan Vera