As far as soccer goes, the United States has always been a bit of a redheaded stepchild to the rest of the world. Major League Soccer, the top tier for professionals in this country, continues to work at changing that image, while impressive ratings numbers for the recently completed World Cup shows a growing American market for the sport.
RSL vs. NYRB is the perfect match to highlight the leaps and bounds made in American soccer during the past few years. Not only have the Red Bulls just acquired some of the biggest names in international futbol—French great Thierry Henry and Mexican National team captain Rafa Márquez—but they are also rapidly climbing the standings and are now positioned second in the East. RSL, for their part, are not only also ranked second in the West, but as the reigning 2009 MLS champions, they are now also aiming to tear it up through the CONCACAF Champions League.
Real Salt Lake vs. New York Red Bulls @ Rio Tinto Stadium, 9256 S. State, 801-727-2700, Sept. 4, 7 p.m., $20-$125. RealSaltLake.com