Real Salt Lake vs Atlas Prediction: Atlas FC is predicted to win against Real Salt Lake with a score of 1-0.
The Leagues Cup action continues as Real Salt Lake prepares to host Atlas FC in a pivotal Group West 8 matchup. With both teams eyeing progression to the knockout stages, this encounter promises to be a thrilling affair at America First Field in Sandy, Utah.
Match Preview
Real Salt Lake enters this contest following a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Colorado Rapids in their previous MLS outing. The loss extended their winless streak to three matches, putting additional pressure on Pablo Mastroeni’s men to deliver a strong performance in the Leagues Cup.
Atlas FC, on the other hand, comes into this fixture with momentum on their side. The Mexican outfit secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Houston Dynamo in their Leagues Cup opener, courtesy of a late strike from Rivaldo Lozano. This win has positioned Atlas at the top of Group West 8, giving them a slight edge heading into this crucial encounter.
Real Salt Lake vs Atlas Lineups and Formation
Predicted Real Salt Lake Lineup (Probable 4-2-3-1): Crooks, Julio, Luna, Beavers, Vera, Eneli, A. Gomez, Ojeda, Brody, Oviedo, Glad.
Predicted Atlas FC Lineup (Probable 4-4-2): Reyes, Rocha, Rios, Zaldivar, Fulgencio, Vargas, Mora, E. Aguirre, G. Aguirre, Murillo, Marquez.
Real Salt Lake is likely to maintain their preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, with Andres Gomez expected to play a key role in attack. The 23-year-old Colombian forward has been in fine form, netting 13 goals in the MLS regular season.
Atlas FC is anticipated to stick with the 4-4-2 system that served them well against Houston. The partnership of Julio Furch and Edison Flores up front could pose significant problems for the RSL defense.
Injured and Unavailable Players
Real Salt Lake:
- Alexandros Katranis: Out (knock)
- Erik Holt: Sidelined (hamstring)
- Marcelo Silva: Unavailable (hamstring)
- Pablo Ruiz: Long-term absence (ACL)
- Kevin Bonilla: Out for the season (knee injury)
- Cristian Arango: Suspended (violation of Anti-Harassment Policy)
Atlas FC:
- Brian Lozano: Recovering (knee surgery)
- Mauro Manotas: Sidelined (ACL injury)
- Leonardo Flores: Out until September (leg injury)
Where to Watch Real Salt Lake vs Atlas Live?
Fans can catch all the action live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. The match kicks off at 1:00 AM UTC on August 2, 2024.
Real Salt Lake vs Atlas Live Stream and TV Schedule for Other Countries
- USA: MLS Season Pass
- Mexico: MLS Season Pass, Azteca Deportes En Vivo
- UK: MLS Season Pass
- Canada: MLS Season Pass
- Germany: MLS Season Pass
- France: MLS Season Pass
- Spain: MLS Season Pass
- Italy: MLS Season Pass
- Brazil: MLS Season Pass
- Argentina: MLS Season Pass
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
This will be only the second meeting between Real Salt Lake and Atlas FC. Their previous encounter, a friendly in September 2022, saw Atlas emerge victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.
Real Salt Lake’s recent form has been concerning, with just one win in their last five matches across all competitions. Their home record, however, remains strong, having lost only once at America First Field since May.
Atlas FC has been in better form, unbeaten in their last five competitive fixtures. They’ve shown particular resilience on the road, going four matches without defeat away from home.
Standings and Tournament Implications
Currently, Atlas FC tops Group West 8 with 3 points, while Real Salt Lake is yet to play their first match in the competition. A win for Atlas would secure their passage to the next round, while RSL needs a positive result to keep their hopes alive.
Who Will Win?
Given the current form and injury situations of both teams, this match is poised to be a closely contested affair. Atlas FC’s defensive solidity, having not conceded in their last three Leagues Cup group matches, could prove crucial.
Real Salt Lake’s home advantage and the need for a positive result might push them to attack more aggressively. However, the absence of their top scorer Arango could hamper their offensive capabilities.
Considering these factors, a narrow victory for Atlas FC seems the most likely outcome. The predicted score is 0-1 in favor of Atlas FC, potentially secured through a moment of individual brilliance or a set-piece opportunity.
Real Salt Lake vs Atlas Prediction: Real Salt Lake 0-1 Atlas
As the Leagues Cup progresses, this match could prove pivotal in shaping the landscape of Group West 8. Both teams will be eager to make their mark and advance in this exciting international competition.
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