Wasatch Soccer Sentinel
It’s the final day of the 2024 regular season and Real Salt lake host (former) Captain Dami and the Whitecaps. On this MLS Decision Day, both teams have secured a playoff berth, yet still have a compelling reason to fight for a win.
Something to fight for
Real Salt Lake have had a good season, even if their form has cooled slightly in recent months. They not only secured a playoff spot, but they cannot finish lower than 4th place (their current spot). A top four finish ensures they get homefield advantage in the home-away-home format (should all 3 games be needed). They have a chance to finish above Seattle (leave on points but ahead on tiebreakers) and earn a place in the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup. A return to Champions League Cup would be a big accomplishment for RSL and bring more meaningful games next season.
There’s a huge reason for Vancouver to fight for a win. They’re in 8th place, which means they have to play in a wild card game in order to advance in the playoffs. These are single elimination games and most teams would be happy to avoid them. A win for the Whitecaps against RSL could lift them into 7th, and thus avoid the wildcard games. If they lose against Real and Portland win their game (currently in 8th and facing the Sounders in Seattle), then the Timbers will jump the Whitecaps and have homefield advantage in the wildcard game.
