Charlotte FC vs Real Salt Lake – Picks and Predictions (August 16, 2025)
Charlotte FC Put Winning Streak on the Line in Rare Match vs. RSL
Charlotte FC will try to extend their five-match MLS winning streak when they host Real Salt Lake on Saturday night in what will be only the second meeting between the clubs.
Charlotte (13-11-2, 41 points) is coming off a gritty 1-0 road win over FC Cincinnati, keeping them firmly in the playoff picture. Forward Wilfried Zaha has been central to their surge, contributing to four of Charlotte’s last six goals.
Real Salt Lake (9-12-4, 31 points) travels east after a 2-1 loss to the New York Red Bulls. Manager Pablo Mastroeni has emphasized quicker transitions in attack and will be without suspended midfielder Diego Luna. Rwan Cruz could see more minutes, and newly signed striker Victor Olatunji may make his debut.
The teams’ only previous meeting came in 2023, with RSL winning 3-1 at home. Saturday marks their first-ever clash in Charlotte.
Match Information
- Sport: Soccer (MLS)
- Teams: Charlotte FC vs Real Salt Lake
- Venue: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
- Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
- Kickoff: 7:30 PM ET
- Betting Odds:
- Charlotte FC Moneyline: -118
- Real Salt Lake Moneyline: +300
- Draw: +260
- Total Over 2.5: -125
- Total Under 2.5: +105
Charlotte FC Can Win If…
Charlotte needs to continue their aggressive yet disciplined approach that’s fueled their five-game win streak. Zaha’s attacking influence, combined with a solid backline, gives them the edge. If new signing Archie Goodwin can make an impact and Harry Toffolo is cleared to play, their depth will be even stronger.
Real Salt Lake Can Win If…
RSL must be clinical in transition and capitalize on Charlotte’s forward push. Without Diego Luna, creativity in midfield will be tested, making Rwan Cruz’s performance crucial. Strong goalkeeping and defensive organization will be essential to frustrate the in-form hosts.
Key Stats Comparison
Stat Category | Charlotte FC | Real Salt Lake |
---|---|---|
Goals Scored per Match | 1.41 (12th MLS) | 1.26 (18th MLS) |
Goals Conceded per Match | 1.22 (6th MLS) | 1.52 (21st MLS) |
Clean Sheets | 9 | 6 |
Possession % | 51.4% | 48.2% |
Top Scorer | Wilfried Zaha (9) | Cristian Arango (8) |
The Lean
Charlotte’s current form, home-field advantage, and RSL’s midfield absence point toward another victory for Dean Smith’s squad. Model projection: Charlotte FC 2 – 1 Real Salt Lake.
- Pick: Charlotte FC Moneyline (-118)
- Total Lean: Over 2.5 Goals (-125)