Sporting Kansas City is set to face Real Salt Lake this Saturday, June 28, at 7:30 p.m. at Children’s Mercy Park, broadcasting live on the MLS Season Pass. Following a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Charlotte FC, in which they registered an impressive 2.2 expected goals (xG), SKC is looking to maintain their momentum against an RSL team that is just one spot below them in the standings.
A key concern for SKC fans is the health of leading goal scorer Dejan Joveljic, who scored the decisive goal in Wednesday’s match but suffered a leg injury shortly after. Fortunately, Joveljic has not been listed on the injury report, raising hopes for his availability in Saturday’s match. Tied for third in the MLS Golden Boot race with 11 goals, his presence on the field will be crucial. If he is unable to play, Santi Muñoz, who recently provided an assist on Joveljic’s winner, may step into a more prominent role.
On the other side, Real Salt Lake arrives with some momentum after a solid 2-0 win against DC United. RSL will feature Johnny Russell and William Agada, both of whom have connections to SKC. Russell has been vocal about his affection for his time at SKC, which he described as a home for seven years, while Agada continues to emerge as a key player for his new team.
Adding to the emotional stakes of the match, SKC will pay tribute to former defender Matt Besler, inducting him as a Sporting Legend. Besler played a pivotal role in the team’s 2013 MLS Cup victory against RSL.
Despite RSL’s challenge, the absence of Diego Luna, who is away on international duty, will leave a considerable gap as he leads the team in both goals and assists this season.
As SKC aims to close the gap for a playoff spot, Saturday’s game represents not just a critical point in the standings but also a moment to honor the past and embrace the future. With emotions high and significant implications on the line, it promises to be an exciting matchup.