Chicago City Wire

Chicago Fire FC faced a challenging match at home, losing 3-2 to FC Cincinnati on April 19, 2025, at Soldier Field. This marked the team's first home defeat of the season.

Chicago took control early in the game, owning 60 percent of possession in the first half. However, FC Cincinnati seized an opportunity in the ninth minute when Sergio Santos initiated a counterattack with a pass to Evander. The Brazilian midfielder scored with a deflected shot from outside the box, putting Cincinnati ahead.

Chicago responded in the 31st minute. Jonathan Bamba delivered a precise through ball to Hugo Cuypers, who scored with a left-footed shot, leveling the score at 1-1. Before halftime, Cincinnati regained the lead when Santos dispossessed a defender and set up Kévin Denkey for a goal in the 42nd minute.

In the second half, FC Cincinnati maintained more possession. In the 72nd minute, Luca Orellano assisted Evander, who scored his second goal of the night, extending Cincinnati's lead. Despite this, Chicago struck back in the 85th minute. Cuypers recovered a loose ball, and Andrew Gutman was fouled in the box, leading to a penalty. Brian Gutiérrez converted the penalty kick, making it 3-2. However, Chicago couldn't close the gap further.

The match concluded with Chicago's offense outshooting Cincinnati 20 to 11. Fans saw yellow cards issued to several players, including Kévin Denkey from Cincinnati, and Chicago's Alvaro Acosta. "Chicago dropped a match for the first time at home in 2025," noted the club's communications team.

Next up, Chicago travels to face Nashville SC on April 26 at GEODIS Park, with the match set to broadcast on multiple platforms.