Real Salt Lake (9th in the Western Conference) needs a win over San Jose Earthquakes (5th) on October 31, 2026, to secure a playoff berth, according to KSL Sports and CBS Sports.
Real Salt Lake’s playoff push hinges on San Jose win on Halloween
Real Salt Lake (RSL) travels to San Jose on October 31, 2026, for a high-stakes match against the San Jose Earthquakes. RSL, currently ninth in the Western Conference, is one point behind seventh-place Colorado Rapids and one point ahead of eighth-place Seattle Sounders FC.
What happened
Real Salt Lake (RSL) travels to San Jose on October 31, 2026, for a high-stakes match against the San Jose Earthquakes. RSL, currently ninth in the Western Conference, is one point behind seventh-place Colorado Rapids and one point ahead of eighth-place Seattle Sounders FC. A win here could secure their playoff spot, as their final game is against the LA Galaxy. Meanwhile, the Earthquakes, already locked into the playoffs, aim to climb higher in the standings.
Who is affected
Fans of both teams are directly impacted, as this match could determine RSL’s playoff fate. For RSL, key players like Sergi Solans (14 goals), Morgan Guilavogui (5 goals, 10 assists), and Saba Lobjanidze (4 goals, 4 assists) are crucial. For San Jose, Preston Judd (16 goals) and Niko Tsakiris (3 goals, 12 assists) will be pivotal. The outcome also affects the broader Western Conference standings, with teams like Colorado Rapids and Seattle Sounders FC closely monitoring the result.
Key numbers
| Stat | Figure | Date | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Salt Lake points | 42 | 2026 | KSL Sports |
| San Jose Earthquakes points | 49 | 2026 | CBS Sports |
What to do next
Fans can watch the match live on Apple TV, as confirmed by GOAL. Those outside the U.S. may need a VPN to access the stream. Additionally, fans can follow team news, player updates, and betting insights from various sports outlets.
What we know and don’t know
We know the match is scheduled for October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM in San Jose, and it carries significant weight for both teams' playoff aspirations. However, we don’t know the exact starting lineups or any potential injuries to key players before kickoff. The final standings and playoff implications will also depend on the outcomes of other games in the final week of the season.
Timeline
- October 15, 2026: Real Salt Lake and San Jose Earthquakes drew 1-1 in Salt Lake City.
- October 23, 2026: Real Salt Lake defeated Austin FC 2-1, securing momentum heading into the San Jose match.
- October 31, 2026, 5:00 PM: Real Salt Lake vs. San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park, San Jose.
Why it matters
This match is critical for Real Salt Lake, as a win could solidify their playoff spot. For San Jose, while already qualified, a victory would help them climb higher in the standings and potentially secure a better playoff position. The outcome also impacts the broader Western Conference race, with teams like Colorado Rapids and Seattle Sounders FC closely watching the result.
Key takeaways
- Real Salt Lake needs a win to secure their playoff spot, with their final game against LA Galaxy following.
- San Jose Earthquakes, already in the playoffs, aim to improve their standing and potentially secure a higher playoff seed.
- Key players to watch include Sergi Solans (RSL) and Preston Judd (San Jose).
- The match will be broadcast live on Apple TV, with potential VPN requirements for international viewers.
- Recent form shows RSL on a three-game winning streak, while San Jose has struggled to win in their last five matches.
Frequently asked questions
Where and when is the match?
The match between Real Salt Lake and San Jose Earthquakes will take place at PayPal Park in San Jose, California, on October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
How can I watch the match?
You can watch the match live on Apple TV. For viewers outside the U.S., a VPN may be required to access the stream.
Who are the key players to watch?
For Real Salt Lake, key players include Sergi Solans (14 goals), Morgan Guilavogui (5 goals, 10 assists), and Saba Lobjanidze (4 goals, 4 assists). For San Jose Earthquakes, Preston Judd (16 goals) and Niko Tsakiris (3 goals, 12 assists) are crucial.
What are the current standings?
Real Salt Lake is ninth in the Western Conference with 42 points, while San Jose Earthquakes are fifth with 49 points.
What happens if Real Salt Lake wins?
A win would secure Real Salt Lake's playoff spot, as they are currently one point behind seventh-place Colorado Rapids and one point ahead of eighth-place Seattle Sounders FC.
What happens if San Jose Earthquakes win?
A win would help San Jose Earthquakes climb higher in the standings, potentially securing a better playoff position and a spot in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
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Sources
- San Jose Earthquakes vs. Real Salt Lake Prediction, Picks, Live Odds – Oct. 31 — bleachernation.com, 2026-10-31
- Watch San Jose Earthquakes vs Real Salt Lake Major League Soccer soccer game LIVE: Team news, TV channels, online streams, kick off time — goal.com, 2026-10-30
- Playoff-bound Earthquakes host surging Real Salt Lake — cbssports.com, 2026-10-30
- San Jose Earthquakes vs Real Salt Lake Prediction and Betting Tips | October 31st 2026 — sportskeeda.com, 2026-10-29
- Trick or treat: RSL takes playoff push to San Jose on Halloween — sports.ksl.com, 2026-10-31