Real Salt Lake vs Minnesota United Prediction & Betting Tips (24 August)

Real Salt Lake returns to home turf with a chip on its shoulder after a narrow 2-1 defeat to the New York Red Bulls, where 18-year-old Zavier Gozo continued to shine with his third goal of the season. Head coach Pablo Mastroeni, now navigating his longest winless streak in five seasons, has been forced into tactical reshuffles due to injuries and suspensions. Diego Luna, a key midfield engine, will miss this clash after receiving a second yellow in the previous match, while Justen Glad remains questionable following a concussion. The recent additions of Victor Olatunji and Rwan Cruz offer fresh attacking options, but the pressure is mounting for RSL to convert chances into results.

Minnesota United, meanwhile, rides into this fixture with momentum after a historic 1-0 win over Seattle Sounders, completing their first-ever season sweep of the Western Conference giants. Joaquín Pereyra has emerged as a creative force, tallying four assists in his last four outings, while goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair continues to anchor the backline with poise. Head coach Eric Ramsay has voiced frustration over a quiet transfer window, but his squad has responded with disciplined performances and a renewed sense of identity. The Loons’ recent form—two wins and two draws in their last four—suggests a team quietly building toward a playoff push.

The tactical battle promises intrigue. RSL’s high-pressing style, often reliant on Luna’s distribution and Gozo’s pace, will need recalibration in his absence. Minnesota’s more patient buildup, led by Pereyra and supported by the industrious Wil Trapp, could exploit gaps left by RSL’s transitional vulnerabilities. Expect RSL to start aggressively, especially with the home crowd behind them, but Minnesota’s compact shape and late-game resilience could make this a chess match until the final whistle.

Prediction: Real Salt Lake 2, Minnesota United 1. Despite recent setbacks, RSL’s urgency and home advantage should tip the scales. Gozo’s form and the potential debut of Olatunji may provide the spark needed to break Minnesota’s defensive shell. The Loons will likely respond through Pereyra’s creativity, but RSL’s hunger for redemption should carry them over the line in a tightly contested affair.