Chicago Fire FC is set to conclude a three-game homestand this evening with an Eastern Conference clash against Charlotte FC at Soldier Field, kicking off at 7:30 p.m. CT. The match will be available for viewing around the world through the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, as well as on wlsam.com for English listeners and on Que Buena Fire via the Uforia App for Spanish listeners.
The Fire are aiming to replicate their previous success against Charlotte, where they secured a resounding 4-1 victory in their last encounter at Bank of America Stadium, a performance that saw midfielder Brian Gutiérrez score a brace. Gutiérrez’s exceptional play earned him recognition on the MLS Team of the Matchday for Matchday 14 alongside defender Andrew Gutman.
Head Coach Gregg Berhalter unveiled the Starting XI, which features two changes from the last game against Philadelphia. Defender Sam Rogers returns to the lineup for the first time since May 25 and will partner with team captain Jack Elliott at center back for the 11th match of the season. This will mark Rogers’ 13th appearance in his MLS career.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Dean, making his 60th regular-season appearance, takes his place at right back for his 12th match of the season, while Andrew Gutman, starting for the 19th time this year, preserves his position as left back, the highest number of starts for a player in a single season since 2022.
Midfielder Mauricio Pineda will be playing in the third match of this homestand and will join fellow Homegrown players Sergio Oregel Jr. and Gutiérrez in the midfield for the tenth time this season. Additionally, MLS All-Star Philip Zinckernagel will make his 17th start of the season, contributing 14 goals to date, alongside attackers Hugo Cuypers and Jonathan Bamba as they look to increase the Fire’s current tally of 35 goals in 2025.
Unfortunately, the Fire will be without goalkeeper Chris Brady, who is on international duty, as well as defenders Carlos Terán and Christopher Cupps, and midfielders Rominigue Kouamé, Chris Mueller, and David Poreba due to various injury setbacks.
As the Chicago Fire FC takes the field tonight, fans are hopeful for another impressive performance that could solidify their position in the Eastern Conference standings. The excitement surrounding the homestand reflects the team’s resurgence and dedication as they strive to excel this season.