Introduction to the Match
The Chicago Fire and Los Angeles FC faced off on Saturday at SeatGeek Stadium, resulting in a 2-2 draw. The match saw several lead changes, with the Fire initially taking the lead, then losing it, and finally settling for a tie.
First Half Highlights
Denis Bouanga scored on a penalty kick in the 81st minute to rally Los Angeles FC to the draw. However, before that, the Chicago Fire grabbed a 1-0 lead in the 11th minute on Carlos Terán’s first goal this season. Philip Zinckernagel collected an assist on the score. Terán has totaled one goal in five straight campaigns. LAFC pulled even in the 19th minute on a goal by defender Ryan Hollingshead — his second. Nineteen-year-old midfielder David Martínez picked up his first assist this season after notching two in 17 appearances last year.
Second Half Highlights
The Fire took a 2-1 lead in the 70th minute on a goal by Jonathan Bamba — his fourth in his first season in the league. Zinckernagel snagged another assist — his 13th — and Brian Gutiérrez earned his second. However, the lead was short-lived, as Bouanga notched his 14th goal of the season for LAFC after subbing in for Mathieu Choinière in the 61st minute. The PK was awarded after Son Heung-Min — in his debut with the club — was fouled by defender Carlos Terán.
Goalkeeper Performance
Chris Brady saved four shots for Chicago, while Hugo Lloris totaled one save for LAFC. The goalkeepers’ performances were crucial in the match, with Brady making several key saves to keep the Fire in the game.
Team Standings and Upcoming Matches
It was the first of three straight home matches in Bridgeview for the Fire, whose home these days is Soldier Field. Chicago is 102-55-72 in regular-season play at SeatGeek. The Fire began the day in possession of the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference as it tries to make the postseason for the first time since 2017. LAFC entered the day sixth in the Western Conference, but the club has at least two matches in hand on all five teams above it. LAFC stays on the road to play the New England Revolution on Saturday, while the Fire will host St. Louis City on Saturday.
Conclusion
The 2-2 draw between the Chicago Fire and Los Angeles FC was an exciting match with several lead changes. The Fire’s inability to hold onto their leads ultimately cost them the win, and they had to settle for a tie. The match was a crucial one for both teams, as they battle for playoff spots in their respective conferences.
FAQs
Q: Who scored the equalizing goal for LAFC in the 81st minute?
A: Denis Bouanga scored on a penalty kick in the 81st minute to rally Los Angeles FC to a 2-2 draw.
Q: Who assisted on the Fire’s first goal?
A: Philip Zinckernagel collected an assist on the score.
Q: What is the Fire’s record in regular-season play at SeatGeek Stadium?
A: Chicago is 102-55-72 in regular-season play at SeatGeek.
Q: Who will the Fire host in their next match?
A: The Fire will host St. Louis City on Saturday.
