The Vancouver Whitecaps opened their 2026 MLS campaign with a professional 1-0 win over a plucky Real Salt Lake at BC Place on Saturday, as they try to pick up where they left off in league play last season. 

It wasn’t always the smoothest performance, but a burst of quality in the second half helped everyone remember why this team is widely viewed as a top contender for silverware in 2026. A well-taken goal from AZ Jackson was the difference, and the ‘Caps did well to grind out a clean sheet against an RSL side that punched above its weight, despite lacking most of its best players.

Jesper Sørensen made three key changes to his lineup from the midweek. Ralph Priso entered the starting XI at centreback, pushing Mathias Laborda out to right back instead of Edier Ocampo. Thomas Mueller returned to the lineup, as expected, and Jackson was handed his first start in Vancouver, replacing Kenji Cabrera on the wing.

It was a bright start for the away side, however, with RSL winning three corners in quick succession and using their numbers in the midfield to win second balls and prevent the ‘Caps from breaking free. Vancouver...