Austin FC face Real Salt Lake at Q2 Stadium, Austin, Texas on Thursday, Oct 29 at 1:30 AM in a basement battle that neither side can afford to lose. Both clubs are deep in the relegation picture in the MLS, and defeat here could prove costly come the end of the season.

Austin FC come into this fixture drawing too many games (3D in last 5). Real Salt Lake travel struggling badly (1W 4L in last 5), which may hand the initiative to the hosts.

Despite playing at home, Austin FC face a side that has dominated this fixture historically. Real Salt Lake have won 5 of 10 encounters, with 3 draws. Their last encounter ended in Austin FC won 1–2. These two tend to produce goals — averaging 3.8 per game in recent meetings.

Verdict: This looks an evenly matched contest. Home advantage gives Austin FC a slight edge, but Real Salt Lake are capable of causing problems. A draw would be a fair result.