Chicago Fire FC x FC Cincinnati

In a fiercely contested battle at Soldier Field on Saturday night, Chicago Fire FC experienced their first setback of the 2024 MLS campaign, succumbing to a 2-1 defeat against FC Cincinnati, who now boasts 4 points from their 1-0-1 record.

The early minutes witnessed both teams creating scoring opportunities, but Homegrown goalkeeper Chris Brady emerged as a stalwart presence for Chicago. In the 16th minute, FC Cincinnati earned a corner kick, and their captain, Lucho Acosta, directed the ball toward the goal in the six-yard box. Brady showcased his prowess by making a crucial point-blank save with his legs, ensuring the score remained level. His heroics continued in the 33rd minute when he skillfully saved a short-range shot from Cincinnati captain Luciano Acosta with his foot.

Despite Brady's valiant efforts, Cincinnati's Aaron Boupendza broke the deadlock in the 39th minute, slotting the ball into the lower right corner and giving the visitors a 1-0 lead. However, Chicago responded in the 45th minute when Brian Gutiérrez was fouled in the box. Captain Xherdan Shaqiri calmly stepped up to the penalty spot, converting the opportunity into the net and leveling the score at 1-1, marking his 13th-career goal for Chicago Fire.

The tension escalated in the 68th minute when Miles Robinson, capitalizing on Acosta's corner kick, connected with a first-time effort to the near post. Robinson's clinical finish proved to be the game-winner, putting FC Cincinnati ahead 2-1 and sealing Chicago Fire's fate in their first defeat of the season.

While the result may be a bitter pill for Chicago Fire FC, the resilience displayed by both teams promises an engaging and unpredictable journey in the 2024 MLS campaign.

[Photography by Matt Sisneros]