The Real Monarchs overcame a late deficit to defeat LAFC 2 in a penalty shootout on Sunday, July 5, 2026. Omar Marquez scored a goal in stoppage time to force the tie, allowing the Utah-based side to claim two points following a 9-8 shootout win at Rawlinson Stadium.
Late Equalizer Forces Shootout
The match began with early momentum for the Monarchs. In the 10th minute, midfielder Omar Marquez intercepted an uncontrolled goal kick and drove down the right sideline before crossing to Jesus Barea, who finished the play for a 1-0 lead. This marked Barea's second goal in as many games since returning from injury.
LAFC 2 responded with two goals during the second half of the match. In the 54th minute, Charlie Kosakoff scored after a corner kick deflected off a Monarchs player and hit the crossbar before entering the net. Kosakoff found the net again in the 63rd minute, capitalizing on a back-heel pass from Tommy Mihalic to extend the lead to 2-1.
Shootout Drama and Victory
With only seconds remaining in regulation, the Monarchs executed a last-ditch effort to save the match. Defender Gio Calderon cleared the ball upfield during the 90+4 minute, where Liam O’Gara used his chest to redirect the ball to Marquez. The midfielder took a touch past a defender and struck a shot into the upper right corner of the net to level the score at 2-2.
Following the equalizer, the game proceeded to a penalty shootout that lasted ten rounds. While Felix Ewald's penalty was saved for the Monarchs, LAFC 2's Giuliano Whitchurch missed his attempt, allowing captain Calderon to convert the final penalty to secure the win.
Defensive Stand in Los Angeles
Goalkeeper Max Kerkvliet played a pivotal role in maintaining the Monarchs' defensive presence throughout the match. In the 4th minute, Kerkvliet made a double save to deny LAFC 2, parrying an initial header and then making a low kick save on a rebound from Marius Aiyenero.
Kerkvliet, who joined Real Salt Lake in 2025 via the MLS SuperDraft, also provided a significant presence during the shootout. His stature helped influence LAFC 2 shooters, as two players missed the mark by hitting the crossbar.
Looking Ahead
The victory concluded a three-match road trip for the Monarchs, bringing their season record to 5-8-4 with 23 points. The team is scheduled to return to the Wasatch Front to host Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 at America First Field on Saturday, July 11.
