The 2009 MLS Cup was held on November 22, 2009, at Qwest Field (now Lumen Field) in Seattle, Washington. Real Salt Lake defeated the Los Angeles Galaxy 5-4 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 draw through extra time. This was Real Salt Lake's first MLS Cup championship in franchise history.
Donovan Ricketts scored the opening goal for Los Angeles in the 25th minute, but Real Salt Lake equalized through Robbie Findley in the 85th minute to force extra time. After 120 minutes of play remained tied, the match went to a penalty shootout where RSL goalkeeper Nick Rimando made crucial saves to secure the victory.
The 2009 MLS Cup was notable for being played in front of 46,011 fans and marked the culmination of Real Salt Lake's remarkable playoff run. The victory capped off RSL's best season to that point and established them as a major force in Major League Soccer.