Chicago Fire FC lost 2-1 to St. Louis CITY SC at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Ill., according to an April 29 announcement. The result means Chicago is out of the 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, with midfielder and captain Anton Salétros scoring the only goal for the team.
The match saw Salétros give Chicago a lead in the 63rd minute after Philip Zinckernagel delivered a cross that was headed into goal by Salétros. St. Louis responded eight minutes later when Tomas Totland scored following a rebound from a defensive clearance by Joel Waterman. Eduard Löwen then completed a counter-attack in the 78th minute, giving St. Louis the win and ending Chicago’s pursuit of its fifth U.S. Open Cup title.
This outcome matters as it ends Chicago’s campaign for another trophy this season and shifts focus back to league play, where they continue their efforts within Major League Soccer conferences with a professional roster, according to the official website. The club has previously earned victories in both MLS Cup and multiple U.S. Open Cups according to the official website.
The game also marked milestones for individual players: Anton Salétros recorded his first goal for Chicago Fire FC during this match, while Homegrown defender Dylan Borso made his first career start with his hometown club, playing most of the match at right back.
Chicago Fire FC fosters soccer growth throughout the Midwest and participates actively in community initiatives according to its official website. The club advances professional soccer while supporting youth development programs as reported by its official site, and utilizes Soldier Field for matches and events according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Chicago will host FC Cincinnati on Saturday, May 2 at Soldier Field as part of regular Major League Soccer play; kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m Central Time with global broadcast on Apple TV and local radio coverage available in English and Spanish languages.
