Match Overview
“It was just a surreal experience,” said Dylan Borso after making his debut for Chicago Fire FC in their match against Columbus Crew on March 7, 2026. The game ended in a 0-0 draw, with both teams unable to find the back of the net.
In this encounter, Chris Brady earned his second consecutive clean sheet, making three crucial saves. The match, held at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus, Ohio, was the 80th all-time meeting between the two clubs, with the historical record now standing at 28 wins for Chicago, 28 for Columbus, and 24 draws.
Match Statistics
Chicago Fire FC managed a total of 8 shots, with 3 of those on target, while Columbus Crew had a more aggressive approach, taking 14 shots and landing 5 on goal. The attendance for the match was recorded at 20,121, showcasing the continued support for both teams.
Despite the draw, Gregg Berhalter, the head coach of Columbus Crew, expressed some dissatisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “I wasn’t pleased with the first half, how we were getting locked on to one side.” He added, “Looking back on it, I think the guys were disappointed not to get the win.”
Player Highlights
Dylan Borso’s debut was a significant moment, as he became the 24th Homegrown Player to feature in a Major League Soccer match for Chicago Fire FC. Reflecting on his unexpected opportunity, Borso remarked, “If you told me 24 hours ago I was going to be playing in an MLS game, I’d tell you you were full of crap.”
In addition to Borso, Chris Mueller made his first start for Chicago Fire FC since October 19, 2024, adding depth to the team’s lineup. However, the match was not without its challenges, as Hugo Cuypers was unavailable due to a slight adductor strain.
Looking Ahead
As Chicago Fire FC prepares for their next match against D.C. United on March 14, 2026, the team will look to build on their defensive performance while seeking to improve their offensive output. The draw against Columbus Crew marks the first time this season that Chicago Fire FC has achieved back-to-back clean sheets, a positive sign as they move forward in the league.
