In a high-stakes Leagues Cup 2025 opener at America First Field, Diego Luna stole the spotlight with a dazzling performance that helped Real Salt Lake (RSL) knock out Mexican powerhouse Club América in a penalty shootout. The match had everything — brilliant goals, last-minute drama, and a sensational young star rising to the occasion.
Luna’s Magic Opens the Show
From the first whistle, Real Salt Lake came out with intent, and it didn’t take long for the home fans to erupt. Diego Luna, one of MLS’s brightest young talents, delivered an early masterpiece — a composed, clinical finish inside the box that beat Mexico’s top goalkeeper. The goal didn’t just give RSL the lead; it set the tone for the rest of the match.
Luna’s opener wasn’t just a flash of brilliance — it was a clear sign of his maturity, vision, and poise under pressure. Still only 21, Luna was named MLS Young Player of the Year last season, and moments like this show exactly why he’s considered one of the league’s top emerging stars.
Club America Responds, But Salt Lake Holds Firm
Club América, reigning Liga MX champions and winners of the last three domestic titles, didn’t stay down for long. In the 42nd minute, forward Brian Rodríguez capitalized on a scramble inside the RSL box to level the score. The Mexican side seemed poised to take control.
But just before the halftime whistle, Real Salt Lake struck again. William Agada, showing sharp instincts, found the net to restore the hosts’ advantage.
The game remained tense and tightly contested in the second half. Just when RSL looked set to seal a famous win in regulation, América’s Erick Sánchez struck a stunning goal from just outside the area in the 97th minute, sending the match to a dramatic shootout.
Real Salt Lake Wins on Penalties
In the penalty shootout, composure was the difference. Real Salt Lake converted three of their spot-kicks with calm precision. América, surprisingly, faltered — missing two and having another saved. The shootout ended 3-1 in favor of Salt Lake, giving them not only the win but also a crucial extra point in the group standings under the Leagues Cup format.
The extra point is for the Claret & Cobalt 💪
— Leagues Cup (@LeaguesCup) July 31, 2025
Next for @realsaltlake 👉 @AtletideSanLuis #LeaguesCup2025 pic.twitter.com/XLTFbXYRg5
A Statement Victory for Pablo Mastroeni’s Side
This result is more than just three points — it’s a statement win for a team on the rise. Real Salt Lake came into the Leagues Cup in solid form, climbing the MLS Western Conference table with a series of strong league performances. This victory against one of Mexico’s biggest clubs adds to their growing confidence and credibility.
Head coach Pablo Mastroeni praised his team’s resilience and hunger, especially in a knockout-style setting against a team full of experience and international talent.
Why This Win Matters
- Confidence Booster: Beating Club América, especially in such dramatic fashion, gives RSL a major psychological edge.
- Spotlight on Diego Luna: This game further cements Luna’s reputation as a future USMNT star and a player MLS clubs can build around.
- Momentum in the Leagues Cup: With one win in the bag, Real Salt Lake now controls its destiny in the group stage.
Pochettino Will Be Watching
The match also caught the attention of scouts and coaches beyond North America. Rumors suggest that Chelsea’s Mauricio Pochettino, who is closely monitoring young North American talent, has Luna on his radar. Performances like this — against elite opposition and under pressure — only raise his stock.
Real Salt Lake’s dramatic shootout win over Club América wasn’t just a good result — it was a defining moment. Diego Luna’s brilliance, the team’s unity, and the electric home support combined to create a memorable night in Leagues Cup history.
If Luna continues at this level, it won’t be long before European clubs come calling. For now, though, RSL fans can enjoy watching a star bloom right in front of them — and dream of even bigger things to come.
Next Up for RSL in Leagues Cup:
Keep an eye on their second group stage match — another opportunity to build momentum and edge closer to the knockout rounds.
