Colorado Rapids v Real Salt Lake: Forecast, Odds and Bets
The **Rocky Mountain Cup** makes its 2025 MLS return on Sunday, 18 May 2025, when Colorado Rapids host Real Salt Lake at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. **Kick-off is at 02:30 BST (UK time)**, with continental European viewers tuning in at **03:30 CEST** in Italy, Germany, France and Spain.
This opener marks the first competitive meeting of the season between two long-standing rivals. With the altitude of Commerce City and a passionate home crowd to contend with, this fixture promises intensity and a true test for both sides as they chase early momentum in the campaign.
How are both teams coming into this?
The Rapids arrive buoyed by a positive pre-season on their own turf. Playing at **Dick’s Sporting Goods Park** gives them a familiar environment and a proven track record of strong home performances. While lineup details remain under wraps, the hosts will look to impose their style of play early and take advantage of their supporters’ backing.
Real Salt Lake travel north with ambitions of retaining the Rocky Mountain Cup. Known for their organised defence and structured build-up from the back, RSL face the added challenge of adapting to the high altitude. Their success will hinge on managing energy levels and striking quickly on the counter-attack.
Our forecast
Expect a tight, competitive affair in Colorado. Home advantage could be decisive, but Real Salt Lake’s resilience suggests they won’t go down without a fight. We anticipate a fast-paced opening half, with both teams probing each other’s defences.
For punters, a **2-1 victory for the Rapids** looks plausible, with goals at both ends. A “Both Teams to Score” wager and backing an early goal in the first half could offer good value in this fixture.
