Review of Real Salt Lake's 2024 Season: Incredible climbing to an MLS Playoff spot

Real Salt Lake finished third in the Western Conference in 2024 with the precondition of 16-11-7. This has been one of the better seasons for the club in quite a while, wrapping up with 59 points and a +17 goal differential, scoring 65 goals and conceding 48. That consistent performance earned RSL an invitation to the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup and marked their 14th postseason in the last 17 years.

Key Players and Outstanding Performances

Several players contributed to the success, most notably Cristian Arango, who led the team with 17 goals. Midfielder Diego Luna shone throughout the season, emerging as a key playmaker and match-winner, particularly in the crucial playoff-clinching game against Vancouver Whitecaps.

Zac MacMath was solid in goal, providing stability with key saves and clean sheets that strengthened RSL's defensive record. Other contributions came from players such as Anderson Julio, Braian Ojeda, and Justen Glad, further offering depth and versatility to this squad.

The Journey to the MLS Playoffs

Under head coach Pablo Mastroeni, Real Salt Lake was resilient throughout the regular season, finding a great balance between home and away fixtures. RSL did not lose in their last five matches. They recorded good displays against Minnesota United and Austin FC. A crucial 1-0 win against the San Jose Earthquakes and a close game, 2-1, against the Vancouver Whitecaps in the final regular-season match sealed their playoff position.

Brilliance and Playoff Outlook

Mastroeni's tactical approach rendered RSL more fluid in attack while never compromising on their defensive discipline. The attacking force, driven at the front by the leading duo of Arango and Luna, was relentless in its dynamic, counter-attacking style, with strong, experienced defenders like Marcelo Silva and Brayan Vera anchoring the backline.

And, as RSL heads into the playoffs, form and confidence are peaking at just about the perfect time. Now they host a Best-of-3 MLS Playoff series against Minnesota United and will look to carry on their regular-season momentum for an appearance to the playoff round. Their leading position in the Western Conference and sensational highlights from key individuals put the team well across the way to make a real challenge for the MLS Cup.

The 2024 season has been one of gradual growth and resilience within RSL. Finishing third in the competitive Western Conference bestows credit on the team for hard work and dedication. Qualification for the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup highlights further progress, marking a return to continental competition for the first time since 2015. Real Salt Lake stands ready for a deep playoff run, and the fans hope they can add another trophy to the cabinet.