Real Salt Lake Prepares For Final Preseason Test Against LA Galaxy

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Real Salt Lake is yet to lose a game this preseason as they prepare for their final test against the LA Galaxy this weekend. The match will be available to stream via the KSL 5 TV app and KSLSports.com with kickoff expected for 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 10.

Thus far, RSL has beaten Sacramento Republic, Colorado Rapids, and Phoenix Rising in an impressive display of character and chemistry. The offseason additions, led by Anderson Julio and Rubio Rubin, have all played a role as RSL looks to rebound from an incredibly difficult 2020 campaign.

The team has been in Tucson, Arizona since April 1st, training in the desert as they put their final touches on an otherwise very beneficial preseason.

Expected Starting XI

Manager Freddy Juarez has opted for two entirely different starting XI’s through the first two preseason games in Tucson. The final game against the Galaxy will likely provide a similar outcome. However, as that it is the final preseason game, it is fair to assume that Juarez will play a version of his strongest lineup to date.

David Ochoa, who is pegged to win the goalkeeping battle, is yet to play for RSL in the preseason after spending time with the US under-23 team, Ochoa should be the starting goalkeeper for the game against the Galaxy.

"At the end of the day, movement is movement" 🏊‍♂️🏀 pic.twitter.com/t3tQXBSi5U

— Real Salt Lake (@realsaltlake) April 9, 2021

Justen Glad and Marcelo Silva are the two most experienced center backs on RSL’s current roster. They will likely play alongside each other tomorrow evening. Donny Toia and Aaron Herrera should slot in at left-back and right-back respectively.

The midfield is filled with talented players so it will be interesting to see what Juarez has in store. Pablo Ruiz and Everton Luiz are the two players that will likely hold the heart of the midfield together.

Competition Within Attacking Half

Albert Rusnak at the 10 with Julio on one wing. But there is an opening on the other flank, Justin Meram, Maikel Chang, and Jeizon Ramirez are all fighting for the starting spot. Be sure to keep an eye on who Juarez decides to play against the Galaxy. It could give fans a glimpse into the near future.

"There's a better understanding of what we're trying to do" pic.twitter.com/F8FHS0zIUJ

— Real Salt Lake (@realsaltlake) April 8, 2021

Rubin has been spectacular at the striking position since joining the team late last year. He will likely start over Douglas Martinez when the MLS season begins on April 24th against Minnesota United.

However, when Bobby Wood arrives midway through the season. The competition for the starting striker position will heat up. Rubin must prove his worth while he has the job to himself as Wood will push him for starting minutes the second he steps off the plane.

Galaxy Preseason Results To Date

The LA Galaxy has not performed well during preseason thus far. Their only win came against the New England Revolution on March 27th when they succeeded 1-0. They then lost to the Revolution 4-1 just four days later. They lost to Sporting Kansas City 1-0 on April 3rd, they drew to Colorado Rapids on April 7th and will close their preseason schedule against RSL tomorrow evening.