SANDY, Utah – Real Salt Lake's pursuit of the CONCACAF Champions Cup came to a disappointing end on February 26, 2025, as they were eliminated following a 2-1 loss to C.S. Herediano at America First Field. With high hopes riding on this match, RSL was unable to maintain its early momentum, falling short and thereby sealing their exit from the tournament.
The match started promisingly for the Claret & Cobalt when Forster Ajago scored his inaugural goal for the team early on. After being set up by Dominik Marczuk, Ajago found the net with skill, giving RSL a 1-0 lead just after 26 minutes. This goal ended the team's 205-minute scoring drought to start the 2025 season, bringing hope to the home crowd.
Despite this initial surge, the missed chances began to haunt RSL. Coach Pablo Mastroeni had earlier expressed hopes for improvement following their lackluster 0-0 draw against Herediano in the first leg, emphasizing the need for greater urgency and precision. "We scored goals in preseason, but when chips are on the table, the expectations go up, the nerves go up," he remarked.
The first half showcased RSL's control, as they outshot their opponents 14-3. They had moments of potential with several close opportunities, including one where Marczuk's well-placed pass should have resulted in another goal. Unfortunately, Ajago misfired, reflecting the team's struggle to capitalize on key scoring chances.
Coming out of halftime with the lead, RSL faced pressure from Herediano, who appeared more determined. The visitors managed to equalize when, following some defensive confusion, Emerson Bravo found the net with precision just ten minutes after the break. Herediano capitalized on the opportunity, tying the match at 1-1 and putting RSL's aggregate lead at risk.
With the score tied, RSL made strategic substitutions, bringing fresh legs onto the field. Yet, the team's defensive liabilities came back to haunt them. A disheartening lapse allowed Herediano to secure the game-winning goal. After enduring moments of pressure, they were awarded a penalty kick late due to a foul within the box, which they converted to clinch their advancement to the next round.
Throughout the match, Real Salt Lake struggled to regain their earlier form. Coach Mastroeni was understandably disappointed. "We could have won," he stated, referring to the myriad missed opportunities he saw throughout the fixture. RSL's inability to find the back of the net alongside their defensive lapses proved costly. The team's captain, Emeka Eneli, emphasized the lessons learned, referring to the need for greater composure: "We try to control the game... and finish those chances to win the match," he said.
The loss marked not just the end of RSL’s run in this year’s Champions Cup but also became part of the narrative as they opened their 2025 season. After another setback only days earlier, losing 4-0 to the San Jose Earthquakes, the defeat intensified the urgency for RSL to regroup for the upcoming MLS season. "This team didn’t work so hard to qualify for this competition just to play two games. We’re going for more," Junqua, one of the defenders, commented, highlighting the determination to turn around their season going forward.
With their exit from the Champions Cup confirmed, RSL faces several questions moving toward the regular MLS season. Amidst the disappointment, they now look to regain their focus and deliver performances worthy of their potential. They are set to face the Seattle Sounders on March 1, 2025, as they hope to bounce back and start their league campaign on the right foot.