Chicago Fire FC edged out Charlotte FC with a 3–2 victory on Saturday at Soldier Field,
wrapping up a three-game homestand with a much-needed win. The result improved Chicago’s
record to 8–7–4, placing them eighth in the Eastern Conference standings.
MLS All-Star Philip Zinckernagel played a pivotal role, scoring his eighth goal of the season and
assisting Brian Gutiérrez’s seventh. Hugo Cuypers added the third goal for Chicago, marking his
11th of the season and third match-winner of 2025.
The match opened with an energetic push from Chicago. In the 23rd minute, Jonathan Dean
intercepted a pass and delivered the ball to Zinckernagel, who converted the first goal. Just two
minutes later, Zinckernagel returned the favor, assisting Gutiérrez to extend the lead. In the 33rd minute, a defensive error by
Charlotte allowed Cuypers to strike Chicago’s third goal of the night.
Charlotte mounted a response after halftime. Wilfried Zaha set up Pep Biel for a goal in the 56th
minute, and three minutes later Biel assisted Idan Toklomati, narrowing the score to 3–2. Despite
the momentum shift, Chicago’s defense held firm to secure only their second home win of the
season.
Saturday’s performance saw Zinckernagel become the fastest player in club history to reach
eight goals and eight assists—accomplished in just 17 matches. Head Coach Gregg Berhalter
also reached a career milestone, earning his 75th regular-season win, joining an elite group of 25
coaches in MLS history to do so. Veteran defender Omar González celebrated his 300th career
appearance.
Several players were unavailable for the match due to injury or international duty, including
goalkeeper Chris Brady (international duty), Carlos Terán, Christopher Cupps, Rominigue
Kouamé, and David Poreba (all lower-body injuries), as well as Chris Mueller (not injury-
related).
Statistically, Chicago outshot Charlotte and held greater possession. Fouls and offsides were
nearly even between the two teams.
Chicago Fire’s next challenge will come on July 5, when they travel to face FC Cincinnati at
TQL Stadium.
