Player Spotlight | Pablo Ruiz Nets First Goal Since 2023 in Leagues Cup Opener 

By: Isabella Rubis 

As Real Salt Lake opened its fourth consecutive appearance in Leagues Cup against Tigres UANL, the energy at America First Field was palpable. With the roar of 16,155 fans behind them, the Claret-and-Cobalt created an early equalizer in the 16th minute after a beautifully weighted left-footed shot by RSL MF Pablo Ruiz, his first goal since June, 2023. While the home side ultimately lost 6-5 in the penalty shootout tiebreaker following a 1-1 regulation draw, a few bright spots and notable milestones distinguished the Tuesday evening match. 

With two RSL players making their first-ever starts for RSL and Ruiz’ rocket of a score, the home side now needs to carry the positives forward from the match as it continues its congested 15-day schedule that sees the Utah side play five consecutive matches at home.

Ruiz on the Scoresheet Once Again 

Real Salt Lake stepped onto its home turf in a competitive match for the first time since mid-May, the long 2026 FIFA World Cup break delaying yet another appearance in the cross-border tournament known as Leagues Cup. While the home side conceded in the sixth minute of the match, the grit and energy never wavered. After a deflected shot by French-born Designated Player Morgan Guilavogui fell back to his feet, the attacker showcased his high soccer IQ, looking up and finding Ruiz at the top of the 18-yard-box. The Argentine midfielder let a lethal left-footed shot rip, sending it past the Tigres goalkeeper to even the score.

Ruiz’s strike marked his first goal for the Club since unleashing a midfield bombazo against D.C. United in June 2023, the score ending a 35-match scoring drought for the midfielder. The long-awaited finish was a testament to the Argentine’s patience and persistence, rewarding the midfielder for his relentless work on both sides of the ball. Ruiz is an example of grit, after tearing his meniscus in August 2023, the midfielder worked relentlessly to return to the pitch just to be hit with another blow, tearing his ACL in March of 2024. 

As Ruiz was tested with two back-to-back injuries, his love for the game and work ethic helped to push him through his recovery and back onto the pitch. Making his first start of 2026, the perfectly-placed left-footed effort gave RSL much-needed momentum after the early concession, reigniting the seismic home crowd at America First Field. 

The goal highlighted Ruiz’s ability to produce in pivotal moments, after Guilavogui’s awareness and unselfishness teed him up at the top of the box, Ruiz wasted no time, striking with confidence and precision. More than just an equalizer, the score was a culmination of the time, energy and endless effort Ruiz and the RSL staff put into getting the midfielder back onto the pitch, a well-earned nod to a player who refused to give up when many others would have.

Arias and Lobjanidze Make RSL Debuts 

Along with the highlight of Ruiz’ 16th-minute score were two starting debuts for the Claret-and-Cobalt. Georgian MF Saba Lobjandize has wasted no time making his presence felt since arriving from MLS side Atlanta United to Utah back on July 1, contributing to two goals in just four appearances while establishing himself as an attacking threat in RSL Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni’s squad.

On the defensive end of the pitch, 22-year-old Juan Jose Arias also earned his first start with the Claret-and-Cobalt, showcasing the composure and athleticism that make him an exciting addition to the Club’s backline. The Colombian centerback brings a championship pedigree, defensive instincts and room to grow. Arias adds valuable depth to RSL’s defense and should be a player to watch as the season progresses. 

As the extended homestand for RSL continues, the Claret-and-Cobalt next play its second Leagues Cup match this Saturday, August 8, against Liga MX newcomers, Atlante FC. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM MT, with tickets available to purchase here.