By Franco Domínguez
A complete team performance from Chicago Fire FC was reflected on the scoreboard as the MLS side earned a convincing 2-0 victory over Club Necaxa.
The Fire's fullbacks played a decisive role in the win, accounting for both goals. Jonathan Dean opened the scoring in the 31st minute, firing a left-footed shot into the back of the net to give Chicago the early advantage.
The second goal came after halftime through the other fullback, Andrew Gutman. Anton Salétros delivered a perfectly weighted lofted pass into the area, and Gutman calmly brought the ball under control before beating Luis Jiménez with a composed right-footed finish to double Chicago's lead.
Chicago has now put together back-to-back impressive performances, fueled by the energy of its home crowd and the arrival of Robert Lewandowski, who made his Leagues Cup debut. Although the Polish star did not find the scoresheet, he consistently occupied Necaxa's defenders, created space for his teammates, and helped drive the attack throughout the evening.
Lewandowski finished the match with five shots, including one effort that forced a strong save from Jiménez. His movement and presence in the final third were instrumental in Chicago's attacking rhythm, even without a goal.
Playing away from home continued to be a challenge for Club Necaxa. The Liga MX side created a handful of chances but struggled to generate sustained attacking pressure against a disciplined Chicago defense that controlled the tempo, defended aggressively, and rarely allowed the visitors to threaten the result.
REACTIONS
- Chicago Head Coach Gregg Berhalter
- "We knew it was going to be a physical and high intensity game...overall pleased with the game and it's a good start. The key now is how do we recover and get ready for Santos on Sunday."
- Necaxa Head Coach Martín Varini
- "We have to turn the page and keep working, we did some things right and some others not so good. We have 2 games left and we will look to improve every game"
PLAYERS OF THE MATCH
- Chicago
- Fullbacks Andrew Gutman and Jonathan Dean both scored goals that gave the Fire their first 3 points in the tournament
GAME NOTES
- The match marked the first official meeting between Chicago Fire and Necaxa.
- Robert Lewandowski played 64 minutes on his Leagues Cup debut and had 5 total shots in the game but failed to score.
- This was Jonathan Dena´s first goal in all competitions this season.
CARDS/INJURY REPORT
- Yellow Cards:
- Necaxa: Raul Martinez, Daniel Leyva, Mauro Zaleta
LOOKING AHEAD
- Chicago: Aug. 9 vs. Santos Laguna
- Necaxa: Aug. 9 vs. Philadelphia
