Chicago Fire FC announced on March 9 that goalkeeper Chris Brady has been selected for the Major League Soccer (MLS) Team of the Matchday for Matchday 3, following his four-save shutout in a scoreless draw against Columbus Crew at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.
Brady is the first Chicago Fire player to be named to the league’s Team of the Matchday in 2026. His performance included a season-high four saves and marked his second consecutive shutout this season. The result prevented Columbus Crew from winning their home opener for the first time since 2021. Brady also recorded a clean sheet in Chicago’s home opener against CF Montréal on March 7.
This recognition marks Brady’s seventh career mention on the Team of the Matchday and his fifth appearance in the Best XI. He was previously listed as a substitute for Matchday 38 last season after a strong showing in a draw against Toronto FC at Soldier Field, and he last appeared in the Best XI earlier that year with five saves against D.C. United.
The full lineup for MLS Team of the Matchday includes forwards Sam Surridge, Brian White, and Rafael Navarro; midfielders Pep Biel, Keaton Parks, Maxi Moralez, and Wiki Carmona; defenders Kalani Kossa-Rienzi, Tristan Blackmon, and Zavier Gozo; with Chris Brady as goalkeeper. Jesper Sørensen is named coach. The bench features Thomas Gillier, Richie Laryea, Patrick Yazbek, Sebastian Berhalter, Alexey Miranchuk, David MartĂnez, Anders Dreyer, Timo Werner, and Darren Yapi.
Chicago Fire FC competes in Major League Soccer conferences with a professional roster according to the official website. The club fosters soccer growth in the Midwest and engages in community initiatives according to its official website. Soldier Field serves as its venue for matches and events according to club information. The team has earned victories in both MLS Cup and multiple U.S. Open Cups as reported by its official site. Chicago Fire FC also supports youth development programs alongside advancing professional soccer according to its website, and incorporates a crest and colors inspired by the Great Chicago Fire as noted by club sources.
Looking ahead, Chicago will return to Soldier Field for a match against D.C. United on March 14 at 7:30 p.m., which will be broadcast globally on Apple TV.
