Entering Thursday’s contest, the Fire (MLS is Back Tournament: 1-1-0, 3 points / MLS regular season: 1-2-1, 4 points) currently sit in third place in the Group B standings. With a win against Vancouver, the Fire would finish in second place in Group B and guarantee a berth in the Knockout Round. Additionally, Chicago can advance with a draw against Whitecaps FC, as the top four third place teams will also go through to the Knockout Round. To view the full group standings, click here.
Chicago began play in the tournament with an exciting 2-1 win over the defending MLS Cup champions Seattle Sounders FC on July 14, receiving a goal from forward Robert Berić and a goal and an assist from Homegrown rookie Mauricio Pineda. Pineda was also named to the MLS Team of the Week for the first time in his career.
Five days later, the Fire played its second match of the tournament against the San Jose Earthquakes on July 19, falling 2-0 after conceding twice in the second half. With the win, San Jose moved into first place in Group B with seven points, becoming the first team in the group to advance to the Knockout Round.
Vancouver enters Thursday’s match coming off two straight losses in the group stage. Whitecaps FC opened the tournament with a 4-3 loss to San Jose on July 15, conceding the game-winning goal in the eighth minute of second half stoppage time. Most recently, the Canadian side fell 3-0 to their Cascadia rival Sounders FC on July 19.
Chicago Fire FC and Continental Tire Host Drive-In Matchday
In partnership with Continental Tire, the Chicago Fire hosted a “Drive-In Matchday” at Soldier Field on Sunday night, providing fans with a unique opportunity to watch the team’s contest against the Earthquakes. Footage and photos from the drive-in watch party are now available and can be accessed by clicking here.
Chicago Fire Team Schedule (July 20-26)
Monday, July 20
Off day
Tuesday, July 21
Training at 9:30 a.m. CT at ESPN Wide World of Sports
Wednesday, July 22
Training at 7:00 a.m. CT at ESPN Wide World of Sports
Thursday, July 23
Chicago Fire FC vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC at ESPN Wide World of Sports at 8:00 a.m. CT
Friday, July 24
Training at 9:30 a.m. CT at ESPN Wide World of Sports
Saturday, July 25
TBD
Sunday, July 26
TBD