Whitecaps Face Real Salt Lake in MLS Opener at BC Place
Vancouver Whitecaps FC are gearing up for their 2026 MLS home opener against Real Salt Lake. The match will take place at BC Place on Saturday, February 21, with kickoff scheduled for 4:30 p.m. PT. Fans can enter the stadium starting at 3:30 p.m. PT. This match is significant as it marks the club’s 500th game in MLS regular season play.
2026 MLS Season Outlook
The Whitecaps are coming off a successful 2025 season. They secured the TELUS Canadian Championship title for the fourth consecutive time and clinched their first Western Conference title. Additionally, they reached the finals of both the Concacaf Champions Cup and MLS Cup.
Key Players and New Additions
In preparation for the 2026 season, the team has brought in several new players. The squad is highlighted by:
- Thomas Müller, German football legend
- Brian White, leading goalscorer in MLS history
- Tristan Blackmon, reigning MLS Defender of the Year
- Andrés Cubas, Paraguayan international
- Sebastian Berhalter, MLS Best XI selection
New signings include:
- Nikola Djordjevic, fullback
- Mihail Gherasimencov, fullback
- Oliver Larraz, midfielder
- Aziel Jackson, attacking midfielder/forward
- Bruno Caicedo, forward
- Cheikh Sabaly, forward and AFCON winner
Recent Performances
The Whitecaps began their 2026 campaign with a challenging match against C.S. Cartaginés in the Concacaf Champions Cup. The first leg ended in a 0-0 draw. In the previous year’s tournament, the team had notable victories against teams like CF Monterrey and Inter Miami CF.
Home Match History
Historically, the Whitecaps have performed well against Real Salt Lake at home. They have a home record of 12 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw against the Claret and Cobalt. Last season, they won both encounters, including a 2-1 victory at BC Place.
This home opener is not only a milestone for the club but also an opportunity for them to secure consecutive wins in home openers for the first time since 2014. Fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of the 2026 Coastal Jersey during this significant match.
