Galaxy to Face Real Salt Lake in Playoff Push
LA Galaxy must beat Real Salt Lake on Saturday, November 7, to secure a playoff berth without relying on other results.
Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Soccer
The LA Galaxy, seventh in the Western Conference with 44 points, plays Real Salt Lake in the final regular-season match on Saturday, November 7. A win would give the Galaxy 47 points and a guaranteed playoff spot, while a draw or loss would leave qualification dependent on other Decision Day results.
Why it matters
The match determines whether Los Angeles's MLS club reaches the playoffs, with Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers, and Colorado Rapids results also shaping the final bracket.
The Galaxy enter the final round after a 4-1 win over Austin FC, with Hirving Lozano among the scorers. Real Salt Lake remains mathematically alive, so a draw alone would not clinch qualification.
The players
Hirving Lozano
Mexican forward who joined the LA Galaxy from San Diego FC and scored in the recent 4-1 win over Austin FC.
The details
Los Angeles plays Real Salt Lake in Utah in its last regular-season match. Qualification depends on the Galaxy's own result and on Saturday's other Western Conference games, including Seattle Sounders vs. LAFC, Austin FC vs. Portland Timbers, FC Dallas vs. Colorado Rapids, and Minnesota United vs. San Jose Earthquakes.
Timeline
Saturday, November 7: LA Galaxy vs. Real Salt Lake, plus other Decision Day matches.
Season Trajectory
The Galaxy's season now hinges on a single final match under the MLS playoff format for the Western Conference. A win would lock in a postseason berth, while a draw or loss would require help from rival results.
A win over Real Salt Lake guarantees the Galaxy a playoff spot with 47 points, regardless of other results. A draw or loss means qualification depends on Seattle, Portland, or Colorado failing to win.
The takeaway
Galaxy fans should watch Saturday's full Decision Day slate, since a result elsewhere can matter as much as the match in Utah.
What happens next
The Decision Day matches on Saturday, November 7 will determine the Galaxy's playoff status.
Further reading
For more on the club's season, see Soccer coverage across Los Angeles.
Source note: This article includes information reported by As.
