Chicago Fire defeated Charlotte FC 4–1 at Bank of America Stadium and began their four-game road trip on a high. Brian Gutiérrez's two goals and one assist wrapped up Fire's attacking skill and penned an important chapter on the 2025 MLS season. The victory put the team in contention for better positions on the table and made Gutiérrez one of the most game-altering players in the team.
Besides the huge victory, Fire set record-related marks. It was the team's initial four goals scored and three-goal road victory since June 2024. Fire also set Orlando City aside and became the highest-scoring visiting squad in Bank of America Stadium history at eleven.
Fire push early and score prior to halftime
In the opening half, Chicago dominated and had nine shots while Charlotte had five. The team was in control in midfield and had a high level of intensity going down the flanks. In the 40th minute, Gutiérrez crossed the ball into the box and found Jonathan Bamba. The forward cut inside, rotated his body, and put the ball into the net. It beat Kristijan Kahlina and was a goal for Fire.
The target pleased the visitors' more physical play. They did not look forward to the opponent making a mistake on the ball. The lead at halftime was due to a good showing, as Gutiérrez struck the equilibrium between creating and doing.
Second half commences with pressure and goal by Gutiérrez
Chicago kept the pressure going in the second half and nearly doubled the advantage in the 58th minute. Gutiérrez had his shot deflected off the line. The attack resulted in two consecutive corners, both blocked, but the ball dropped at the top of the box. Gutiérrez struck it low and firm through a couple of defenders and scored the team's second goal in the game. It was his first since the season opener.
The purpose brought Fire more comfort and reaffirmed their control of the game.
At the 62nd minute, Gutiérrez made a run down down the center and left Bamba alone on the wing. He hit it first-time to Andrew Gutman, who came inside and played it off. Philip Zinckernagel was in space, outmuscled the defender and scored to the spot to make it 3-0.
Charlotte scored in the 70th minute courtesy of Patrick Agyemang, who took advantage of a loose ball inside the box to seal the home side's victory. It was his third goal of the campaign.
The response there came to an end. Gutman was fouled in the box in the 76th minute and the referee awarded a penalty. Gutiérrez stepped up and slotted in calmly, netting his second goal of the day. The score was now 4-1, but it seemed like Fire could have scored more.
Gutiérrez enters club history
With the two goals, Gutiérrez set his career total to 36 goals for the Fire and surpassed Justin Mapp to become the club's all-time leading scorer under the age of 22. It's an impressive achievement for a player who distinguishes himself not only by numbers but also by his presence on the field.