Real Salt Lake, proudly participating in Major League Soccer since its inauguration in 2005, holds a rich, captivating history. The team’s successes reflect its grit, with a triumphant MLS Cup win in 2009 marking a high point in the franchise’s journey. Real Salt Lake isn’t just about reminiscing about past glories, however. It’s a team that continually strives to forge a thrilling future. Buying a ticket to a Real Salt Lake match isn’t just about watching a game; it’s about joining a fervent community passionate about soccer and sharing in their unique spirit.
Meeting the Icons
Real Salt Lake has been home to some of soccer’s finest. Remember the likes of Nick Rimando? The MLS legend with more saves than any other goalkeeper in the history of the league made his nest at Real Salt Lake. Or how about Joao Plata, the quicksilver Ecuadorian forward who once lit up the Liga MX with his flair? These players, among others, have left an indelible imprint on the club, taking their skills nurtured on the Salt Lake pitch to other corners of the global football world.
Rivalries That Stir the Soul
If there’s one thing that fuels soccer’s unending fascination, it’s the classic rivalries, and Real Salt Lake isn’t a stranger to these fiery duels. The “Rocky Mountain Cup,” a spirited contest with Colorado Rapids, is the stuff of legend. There’s also the simmering contest with Sporting Kansas City, a feud that never fails to get the heart racing.
But the rivalries aren’t confined to MLS alone. Real Salt Lake’s ventures into the CONCACAF Champions League have seen it locking horns with top teams from other leagues, including Mexico’s Tigres UANL and Monterrey. It’s a clash of different styles and cultures, offering a unique, exhilarating spectacle for fans.
A Seat with a View at America First Field
Selecting the perfect seat at America First Field is much like choosing a personal gateway into the pulsating world of MLS soccer. For a casual but still electric experience, the South End Zone, with ticket prices hovering around $35-$50, offers a budget-friendly yet exciting experience.
However, if you’re looking to step it up a notch, the East Sideline offers mid-field views and comfortable seating at $60-$70 a pop. And for those after the ultimate football experience, the West Sideline, with prices around $80-$90, provides an unmatchable view and a chance to rub shoulders with the most ardent supporters.
And… Goal!
Watching Real Salt Lake play is an experience that transcends the boundaries of a regular soccer game. It’s a spectacle that invites you into a community, a shared history, and an ongoing narrative of thrilling football action. And with the MLS season fast approaching, there’s no better time to grab a ticket, pick your perfect seat, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Real Salt Lake soccer. After all, every game is a chance to be part of a new chapter in the team’s rich history. Don’t miss out!
There is Alway More to Learn
- Real Salt Lake has a significant youth development program. Their youth academy, known as the RSL Academy, is based in Herriman, Utah, and has produced several players who have gone on to have successful professional careers.
- Real Salt Lake’s nickname, the “Claret and Cobalt,” refers to the team’s traditional colors. The “Claret” signifies the deep red color of their home jerseys, while “Cobalt” represents the blue color seen on their away jerseys.
- Real Salt Lake’s mascot is an anthropomorphic lion named “Leo the Lion.” Leo can be seen at every home game at America First Field, pumping up the crowd and interacting with fans.
- The team’s name, Real Salt Lake, was inspired by Real Madrid. The Spanish word “Real” translates to “Royal” in English.
- In 2011, Real Salt Lake set an impressive defensive record by allowing only 20 goals in 34 games, averaging just 0.59 goals per game, one of the lowest in MLS history.
- Real Salt Lake made it to the CONCACAF Champions League Final in 2011, becoming the first MLS team to do so under the tournament’s current format.
- Real Salt Lake’s fans are known as the “Riot Brigade,” a name inspired by the team’s former stadium, the “Rio Tinto Stadium,” which fans affectionately called “The Riot.”
- The team’s fight song, “Believe,” was written by Branden Steineckert, drummer of the punk rock band Rancid and a native of Utah. The song has been adopted by fans and is often sung at games.
- In 2013, Real Salt Lake had a thrilling season, finishing second in the regular season, making it to the final of the U.S. Open Cup, and narrowly missing out on the MLS Cup, losing to Sporting Kansas City in a dramatic penalty shootout.
- The team’s most capped player, Kyle Beckerman, is a notable figure in MLS, having made more than 400 appearances for the team and serving as a central figure in its successes, including the 2009 MLS Cup win. Beckerman also had a prominent international career, representing the United States in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
