Crucial Showdown: Real Salt Lake vs LAFC in Key Western Conference Playoff Battle
September 17, 2025
LAFC will be missing defenders Maxime Chanot, Lorenzo Dellavalle, Aaron Long, and striker Jeremy Ebobisse, who is sidelined until late September.
Denis Bouanga is close to setting a club record for goals, tied with Carlos Vela at 93, and scored a hat trick in the last game, making him a key attacker for LAFC.
Salt Lake's midfielder Diego Luna leads the team in goals and assists, having scored in their last match to break a three-game losing streak, showcasing their resilience.
LAFC's offensive output is 49 goals (11th in MLS), while Salt Lake has scored 30, indicating the match could hinge on Salt Lake's defensive resilience and counterattack.
Salt Lake's defense has been relatively solid, conceding 37 goals (ninth in MLS), with LAFC conceding 35, ranking fifth in league defense.
LAFC is one point behind Seattle Sounders for a top-four spot, while Salt Lake is in 10th place, just one point behind San Jose for a playoff position.
This match is the first of two back-to-back games between LAFC and Salt Lake, with the second scheduled at LAFC's home ground, BMO Stadium.
Salt Lake's squad is impacted by injuries to goalkeeper Zac MacMath, defender Javain Brown, and striker Matthew Bell, with others expected to return late September or October.
LAFC is preparing for this important match to improve their league standing and secure playoff advantages, following a recent victory in San Jose.
LAFC announced a contract extension for defender Sergi Palencia through 2028, highlighting his importance with over 100 appearances and 10 assists.
Real Salt Lake will host LAFC at America First Field in Salt Lake City on Wednesday in a crucial MLS Western Conference match, with both teams vying for a playoff spot.
Kick-off is scheduled for 9:30 PM ET at America First Field, with the game broadcast live on Apple TV in the US.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

The Sporting Tribune • Sep 16, 2025
Bouanga on brink of history as LAFC face road test in Salt Lake