In Sandy, Utah, Real Salt Lake secured a 2-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders in their home opener on Saturday. A first-half own goal, coupled with Forster Ajago’s milestone strike, powered RSL to their first win of the season. The match also marked goalkeeper Rafael Cabral’s clean sheet in his second MLS start.
Real Salt Lake got off to a promising start, taking the lead in the 8th minute following an own goal by Seattle’s Nouhou Tolo. This early advantage set the stage for the remainder of the game. It’s worth noting, Seattle was coming off a game where another own goal in stoppage time by Yéimar Gomez Andrade allowed Charlotte FC to clinch a 2-2 draw in their season opener.
The scoreline remained unchanged until the 79th minute when Forster Ajago, receiving a pass from Diogo Gonçalves, found the back of the net. This was Ajago’s first career goal, achieved in his first start and second appearance this season. Last season, playing for Nashville SC, he did not contribute directly to any goals in his 15 appearances.
Cabral, solid in defense, made three critical saves to secure his first shutout. His performance was a rebound from the league opener, where he conceded four goals in a loss to the San Jose Earthquakes. Meanwhile, Seattle’s goalkeeper Stefan Frei tallied four saves in the game.
Currently, Real Salt Lake has maintained a positive streak against Seattle, posting a record of 3-0-2 in their last five meetings. The Sounders, on the other hand, have struggled with just one victory in their last ten encounters across various competitions. Overall, the series record leans in favor of Seattle at 17-13-7.
The match also highlighted debuts for two young talents. Ariath Piol, a 20-year-old forward, made his first start for RSL, while Kalani Kossa-Rienzi debuted for Seattle. Kossa-Rienzi was temporarily brought up from the Tacoma Defiance to cover for Alex Roldan, who was on paternity leave. The midfielder had only one appearance last season.
Looking ahead, the Seattle Sounders are set to face Los Angeles FC at home next Saturday. Simultaneously, Real Salt Lake will prepare to host San Diego FC, the new entrant to the league, in their next match.
