Minnesota United vs. Real Salt Lake: Ramsay aiming to capitalize on Seattle clean sheet performance
Real Salt Lake Faces Tough Test Against Unbeaten Minnesota United
In a crucial Western Conference showdown, Real Salt Lake will take on Minnesota United this weekend, with the hosts looking to break their two-game losing streak in the MLS.
Currently sitting in 10th place, Real Salt Lake is just one point behind the San Jose Earthquakes, who occupy the final playoff spot. However, Minnesota United, who are on a seven-game unbeaten run against Real Salt Lake in all competitions, will provide a formidable challenge.
The Minnesota side, currently in fifth place, has been impressive this season, boasting the joint-fourth fewest goals conceded (30) in the MLS. They also have a strong record from set pieces, having scored 22 out of their 44 league goals this season.
One player to watch for Real Salt Lake is Braian Ojeda, who has been a consistent performer for the team this season. On the other hand, Tanitoluwa Oluwaseyi, who scored a brace against Real Salt Lake back in March, will be a threat for Minnesota United. Oluwaseyi has scored 10 goals and registered 8 assists in 23 MLS games for Minnesota United this season.
Minnesota United's recent form is encouraging, having won 1-0 against the Seattle Sounders, their first clean sheet in MLS since May 28. Head coach Eric Ramsay believes this victory can boost their confidence heading into the match against Real Salt Lake.
According to OPTA, Minnesota United has a 35.7% chance of winning the match, while Real Salt Lake has a 37.9% chance, and the draw has a 26.4% chance.
Real Salt Lake's coach, Pablo Mastroeni, who has been with the team since 2021 and achieved notable milestones including his 100th career coaching win across all competitions with the club, will be looking to turn the team's fortunes around.
Despite their recent struggles, Real Salt Lake has only lost one game against Minnesota United in the last seven meetings between the two teams. Additionally, Real Salt Lake has a game in hand over their Western Conference rivals, offering a potential opportunity to close the gap.
However, Real Salt Lake's current losing streak of three MLS games is their longest this season. In the last five seasons, they have only had one losing streak of three or more games, which was four straight games from March-April 2023.
This promises to be an exciting clash between two evenly matched teams. With both sides boasting talented players and strong records, the outcome of the match remains uncertain.
