When Sporting Kansas City first assembled as a team in January, the club set a primary goal of securing home field advantage in the Audi 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs.
Half a decade had passed since Sporting KC defeated Real Salt Lake on penalties in the 2013 MLS Cup, the last time Children's Mercy Park hosted a postseason match. Heading into 2018, captain Matt Besler and his teammates knew that had to change.
And change it will.
In a 2013 MLS Cup rematch, Manager Peter Vermes' side will host Real Salt Lake in the decisive second leg of the Western Conference Finals this Sunday at 2 p.