Chicago City Wire

Chicago Fire FC is set to begin a two-game road trip with a match against Atlanta United FC. The Eastern Conference game will take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, starting at 6:30 p.m. CT. It will be broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV and locally in English on wlsam.com and in Spanish through the Uforia App.

The team heads into this match after a recent loss to San Diego FC at Soldier Field, where Hugo Cuypers scored his 12th goal of the season despite the defeat. Chicago Fire FC's Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter has announced the Starting XI for this game, which includes two changes from their previous lineup against San Diego FC.

Dje D’Avilla will make his first start in Major League Soccer for Chicago, playing in midfield. Jonathan Dean returns to his home state of Georgia to start as right back. The defensive line also includes Andrew Gutman, Sam Rogers, and captain Jack Elliott. Chris Brady continues as goalkeeper, aiming for his 23rd career win.

Midfielders Sergio Oregel Jr. and Brian Gutiérrez join D’Avilla in the lineup for the first time this season. Jonathan Bamba looks to continue his strong form with another goal contribution on the road. Philip Zinckernagel and Hugo Cuypers remain key players upfront, with Cuypers seeking another goal against Atlanta United.

Several players are unavailable due to injuries or other reasons, including Carlos Terán, Justin Reynolds, Christopher Cupps, Chris Mueller, and David Poreba. Available substitutes include Jeff Gal, Leonardo Barroso, Omar González, Rominigue Kouamé, Maren Haile-Selassie, Kellyn Acosta, Omari Glasgow, and Tom Barlow.