Diego Luna's seventh goal of the season pushes RSL against San Jose.

  • Luna's stunning 78th-minute strike, combined with Zac MacMath's important saves, earned a thrilling 1-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes.
    But that's just part of the story; RSL's winning streak, dominant midfield, and defensive tenacity are all setting the stage for a thrilling postseason run.
Real Salt Lake v San Jose Earthquakes
Real Salt Lake v San Jose Earthquakes | John Todd/ISI Photos/GettyImages

Real Salt Lake continued their solid form with a close 1-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. Thanks primarily to a moment of greatness from Diego Luna. His left-footed strike in the 78th minute secured RSL three points because they dominated possession (55%), outshooting the Earthquakes 14-6.

Luna, assisted by Braian Ojeda, found opportunity outside the box and sent a shot off the post to score his seventh goal of the season. Luna was not the only star in this match. Goalkeeper Zac MacMath became extremely important in keeping a clean sheet, making crucial saves late in the game.

Although San Jose had few opportunities, major efforts from Rodrigues and Preston Judd imposed the RSL defense. Daniel, the Earthquakes' goalkeeper, made five saves but was unable to prevent the defeat. As RSL aim for a higher playoff seeding, they are currently on a five-game winning streak and continue to show excellent team cooperation.

Team Contributions in the Win

Apart from Luna's individual Score, RSL's midfield, led by Braian Ojeda, dominated the tempo of the game. Ojeda's assist on Luna's score was a crucial moment, as his constant passing and placement helped RSL control possession.

Justen Glad and the backline performed well defensively, limiting the Earthquakes to only one shot on goal and delaying San Jose's assault throughout the game. San Jose had opportunities, but MacMath was there to shut the door, especially in the closing seconds when he blocked a close-range shot.

With this victory, Real Salt Lake improved their standing in the Western Conference rankings, tying for third with the Seattle Sounders and looked poised for a good postseason run. The Earthquakes, however, have only won one of their last seven games, leaving them at the bottom of the table.