Chicago Fire Secure First MLS Playoff Win Since 2009 Defeating Orlando City 3-1

The Chicago Fire secured a significant 3-1 victory over Orlando City in the Eastern Conference Wild Card round, marking their first playoff win since 2009 and ending the longest playoff-victory drought in MLS history. Brian Gutiérrez scored the opening goal, his first postseason goal since 2012, and was praised for his perseverance despite fluctuating playing time. Hugo Cuypers contributed a second-half brace, justifying his record signing status and adding crucial goals that helped the Fire dominate the match. The Fire's strong defensive lineup and effective playmaking, including key assists from Philip Zinckernagel and Jonathan Dean, allowed them to control the game, outshooting Orlando City significantly. With this win, the eighth-seeded Chicago Fire advance to face the top-seeded Philadelphia Union in a best-of-three Eastern Conference first-round series. Orlando City, who had struggled offensively and entered the playoffs with only one recent win, managed only a late consolation goal by Tyrese Spicer.