Major League Soccer Round 1: Real Salt Lake 2-1 Austin FC. The clash at Rio Tinto Stadium on March 15, 2026, saw Real Salt Lake edge out Austin FC in a closely contested 2-1 victory to open their MLS season. A late first-half goal proved the difference for the home side in a match that showcased both teams' attacking intent. Real Salt Lake opened the scoring midway through the first half with a clinical finish from close range. Austin FC responded well and drew level just ten minutes later through a clever free-kick routine that caught the RSL defense napping. The match seemed destined for a halftime deadlock until a moment of individual brilliance from a Salt Lake winger, who cut inside and unleashed a stunning strike into the top corner in the 44th minute. The second half was a more cagey affair, with Austin pressing for another equalizer but finding a resolute RSL defense difficult to break down. The home side managed the game expertly in the final stages to secure the win. This result gives Real Salt Lake an important three points at home, setting a positive tone for their season, while Austin FC will rue missed opportunities in the final third.