Nashville SC defeats Chicago Fire FC

Chicago Fire FC suffered a 2-0 defeat against Nashville SC on Saturday night at Soldier Field. Despite both teams having early chances, it was Nashville who capitalized in the second half, with Hany Mukhtar scoring in the 56th minute off a cross from Andy Najar. The visitors extended their lead in the 75th minute when Najar assisted again, this time finding Sam Surridge, who skillfully maneuvered through the defense to score. Although Chicago outshot Nashville 15-11, goalkeeper Joe Willis was instrumental in keeping a clean sheet with eight saves.

The loss marked Chicago’s first shutout since May 3 and their first shutout defeat since a previous home loss to Nashville last season. Defender Omar González made his second straight start and approached a milestone with his 298th career MLS appearance. Goalkeeper Jeff Gal, standing in for Chris Brady due to national team duty, took his first career MLS loss after winning his two prior starts. Midfielder Sergio Oregel Jr. returned from international duty to maintain his streak of starts, completing a full 90 minutes once again.

Chicago’s roster was notably depleted, with several players unavailable due to injuries or other reasons, including key defenders and midfielders. This short-handed lineup contributed to the team’s struggles despite their aggressive play. The Fire will now have a brief break before hosting Philadelphia Union on Wednesday, June 25, looking to bounce back and regain form as they continue their 2025 MLS campaign.

Goals:
NSH – Mukhtar (8) 56’
NSH – Surridge (12) 75’

Discipline:
NSH – Maher (Yellow Card) 37’
CHI – Oregel Jr. (Yellow Card) 44’
CHI – González (Yellow Card) 63’
NSH – Brugman (Yellow Card) 65’
NSH – Pérez (Yellow Card) 90’
NSH – Tagseth (Yellow Card) 90+3’
NSH – Willis (Yellow Card) 90+4’

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Venue: Soldier Field

Attendance: 26,942

Referee: Alexis da Silva
Assistant Referees: Corey Rockwell, Bruno Rizo
Fourth Official: Atahan Yaya
VAR: Kevin Terry, Jr.
AVAR: TJ Zablocki