The Philadelphia Union overcame a late collapse and defeated the Chicago Fire in a penalty shootout to advance in the MLS Cup playoffs [1, 8]. After building a two-goal lead, the Union conceded twice in the final minutes of regulation before securing a 6-4 victory on penalties [8]. Jesús Bueno scored the decisive penalty for the Union [1].
Key Moments
The Philadelphia Union, fresh off winning the Supporters' Shield, entered the match as the top seed [2]. They looked set to cruise to victory after taking a 2-0 lead [8]. However, the Chicago Fire mounted a late comeback, forcing the game into extra time and eventually penalties [8]. Throughout the match, the Fire implemented a strategy of slowing the game down and disrupting the Union's flow with fouls [6]. The Union struggled to find clear shots, often passing up opportunities in search of a better angle [6]. Mikael Uhre scored a goal in the 64th minute [7].
Penalty Heroics and Next Steps
Goalkeeper Andre Blake's performance in the shootout proved crucial, as the Union held their nerve to secure the win [8]. The Union ultimately prevailed 4-2 in the penalty shootout [8]. Fans were able to watch the match on Apple TV+ with a subscription to MLS Season Pass [5]. The Fire had previously knocked off Orlando to earn their playoff spot against the Union [4]. Key substitutions for the Fire included Brian Gutierrez, Sergio Oregel, and Tom Barlow [7].
TL;DR
- The Philadelphia Union defeated the Chicago Fire 6-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw, advancing in the MLS Cup playoffs [8].
- Jesús Bueno scored the decisive penalty for Philadelphia after they surrendered a two-goal lead late in the match [1].
- The Chicago Fire employed a physical, disruptive strategy, but ultimately fell short in the penalty shootout [6].
- The Union's victory came at Subaru Park and was broadcast on Apple TV+ [5, 8].