Columbus Crew Stun Chicago Fire 4-3 in MLS Thriller

Columbus Crew snatched a dramatic 4-3 victory over Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer Regular Season – 34, with Brais Méndez’s 90+3 minute strike sealing a pulsating win in Chicago. The match was a rollercoaster from start to finish, with six goals traded in an explosive first half.

Chicago Fire Start Strong

The Fire struck first in the 8th minute when Robert Lewandowski calmly converted a penalty, sending Crew goalkeeper Patrick Schulte the wrong way. Lewandowski doubled his tally just 14 minutes later, again from the spot, after a handball in the box. Sandwiched between the penalties, Gonzalo Tapia had equalized for Columbus in the 16th minute, finishing off a slick move involving Taha Habroune.

Columbus Crew Fight Back

Anass Zaroury fired Columbus level again in the 23rd minute, rifling a low shot past Chris Brady. But Chicago regained the lead in first-half stoppage time through Maren Haile-Selassie, who chested down a cross and volleyed home from close range. Both sides rang the changes at the break, with Columbus introducing Brais Méndez and Chicago bringing on Andrew Gutman.

Late Drama Seals It for Columbus Crew

Tapia equalized again for Columbus in the 62nd minute, timing his run perfectly to meet Malte Amundsen’s cross. The Crew pressed relentlessly late on, and their persistence paid off in the 93rd minute. Méndez collected a loose ball 25 yards out and unleashed an unstoppable drive into the top corner, sparking wild celebrations among the visiting players and fans.

What This Means

The result dents Chicago Fire’s playoff hopes, leaving them wondering how they let this one slip after twice leading. For Columbus Crew, it’s a potentially season-defining win, showcasing their resilience and quality in front of goal. Both sides still have work to do as the MLS regular season reaches its climax, but this match will live long in the memory for its sheer drama and entertainment.

Key Moments

8′ ⚽ Chicago Fire — Robert Lewandowski

16′ ⚽ Columbus Crew — Gonzalo Tapia (assist: Taha Habroune)

22′ ⚽ Chicago Fire — Robert Lewandowski

23′ ⚽ Columbus Crew — Anass Zaroury

45+4′ ⚽ Chicago Fire — Maren Haile-Selassie

62′ ⚽ Columbus Crew — Gonzalo Tapia (assist: Malte Amundsen)

90+3′ ⚽ Columbus Crew — Brais Méndez