Shorthanded Real Salt Lake Look to Rebound Against FC Dallas Amid Playoff Push

A depleted Real Salt Lake squad will look to rebound from a disappointing loss when they host FC Dallas on Saturday night.

RSL is currently in seventh place in the Western Conference, just three points above the playoff line. However, they will be without several key players for Saturday's match, including suspended midfielder Damir Kreilach and injured forward Bobby Wood.

FC Dallas, meanwhile, is in fifth place in the West, just one point ahead of RSL. They will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak to four games.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:30 p.m. MT at Rio Tinto Stadium.

Here are three things to watch for in Saturday's match:

1. How will RSL cope without Kreilach and Wood?

Kreilach and Wood are two of RSL's most important players, so their absence will be a major blow. RSL will need to find a way to replace their production, or they could struggle to score goals.

2. Can FC Dallas continue their unbeaten streak?

FC Dallas has been in good form lately, and they will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak to four games on Saturday. They will be facing a depleted RSL squad, so they will have a good chance to do so.

3. Who will win the midfield battle?

The midfield battle will be key in this match. RSL has a strong midfield, led by Pablo Ruiz and Everton Luiz. FC Dallas also has a good midfield, led by Paxton Pomykal and Jesus Ferreira. The team that wins the midfield battle will likely control the match.