The forward Hugo Cuypers was instrumental in Chicago Fire’s success as they triumphed over Orlando City SC with a score of 3-1 in their Eastern Conference Wild Card match. Cuypers scored two goals during the game (11’ and 21’ in the second half), which were pivotal in clinching the victory for Chicago Fire. Additionally, Brian Gutiérrez contributed to the scoreline with a powerful shot just two minutes into the second half.
Orlando City SC managed to find the back of the net courtesy of Tyrese Spicer, who scored in the 43rd minute of the second half. Gutiérrez’s early goal revitalized Chicago Fire, earning him applause from the crowd.
Chicago Fire came close to altering the outcome with two attempts from Gutiérrez that struck the woodwork, showcasing the midfielder’s persistent effort throughout the game.
Gutiérrez’s overall performance marked him as the standout player of the fixture, having netted one goal and taking seven shots toward the goal. Alongside him, Hugo Cuypers shined brightly, converting two goals and attempting five shots on goal.
Head coach Gregg Berhalter deployed Chicago Fire in a 4-3-3 formation, featuring goalkeeper Christopher Brady; a defensive line of Jonathan Dean, Jack Elliott, Joel Waterman, and Andrew Gutman; a midfield comprised of Sergio Oregel, Dje D Avilla, and Brian Gutiérrez; and an attacking trio of Philip Zinckernagel, Hugo Cuypers, and Jonathan Bamba.
On the other hand, Orlando City SC, led by Óscar Pareja, took to the field in a 4-4-2 setup with Pedro Gallese guarding the net; defenders Alexander Freeman, Rodrigo Schlegel, Robin Jansson, and David Brekalo; midfielders Marco Pasalic, Eduard Atuesta, César Araujo, and Iván Angulo; and forwards Duncan McGuire and Martín Ojeda.
Drew Fischer officiated the match at SeatGeek Stadium. With this victory, Chicago Fire secured their position in the quarterfinals of the tournament, eliminating Orlando City SC.
Substitutions for Chicago Fire
80’ – Sergio Oregel was replaced by Rominigue Kouamé, and Jonathan Bamba by Maren Haile-Selassie.
85’ – Brian Gutiérrez made way for Kellyn Perry-Acosta.
Yellow Cards for Chicago Fire
44’ – Andrew Gutman (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for Orlando City SC
54’ – Iván Angulo was substituted by Tyrese Spicer.
68’ – Marco Pasalic was replaced by Luis Muriel.
74’ – César Araujo and Rodrigo Schlegel were substituted for Colin Guske and Adrián Marín, respectively.
Yellow Cards for Orlando City SC
12’ – Eduard Atuesta (Unsporting behavior), 28’ – Rodrigo Schlegel (Unsporting behavior), 44’ – David Brekalo (Unsporting behavior)