Real Salt Lake x Houston Dynamo

Real Salt Lake (RSL) encountered a challenging 3-0 defeat against the Houston Dynamo at America First Field, marked by a lightning delay. Despite holding the third position in the Western Conference with a 10-8-7 record and 37 points, RSL struggled to find their footing in this match, experiencing a rare loss to Houston after an 11-game unbeaten streak against them in MLS since August 2017.

Returning to MLS regular season play after a six-week hiatus due to other competitions, RSL faced the Houston Dynamo in front of the second-largest crowd at their Sandy venue, totaling 21,471 attendees. The match was part of "Kick Childhood Cancer" Night, featuring the Club's Teddy Bear Toss tradition. However, it was Houston that took control early, with former RSL Homegrown player Corey Baird converting a low cross from Brad Smith in the 9th minute. RSL struggled to mount a comeback and establish an offensive rhythm, leading to a 2-0 deficit at halftime.

The second half brought heavy rain and a 59th-minute weather delay. Play resumed nearly 50 minutes later, but RSL still faced a resolute Houston side. Coco Carrasquilla's goal in the 75th minute sealed RSL's fate, resulting in a disappointing 3-0 loss on their home turf. This match not only ended RSL's impressive unbeaten run against Houston but also highlighted the challenges they faced in resuming regular season play after the extended break.

[Photography by ICONIC photographer Abram Iman]