Chicago Fire FC secured their first MLS Cup Playoffs berth since 2017 with a dramatic 5-3 victory over Inter Miami CF on Tuesday night, September 30, 2025. The high-scoring match saw the Fire withstand a spirited comeback attempt led by Miami’s Luis Suárez, ultimately spoiling the night for the home team and their superstar captain, Lionel Messi.
Messi Plays, Suárez Shines, But Fire Prevail
Despite having already clinched a playoff spot, Inter Miami fielded a strong side, with Lionel Messi starting the match. However, the Argentine maestro was held scoreless for the second straight game, though he contributed to the team’s attack.
The Chicago Fire jumped out to an early two-goal lead thanks to a header from Dje D’Avilla in the 11th minute and a breakaway goal by Jonathan Dean in the 31st minute. Inter Miami cut the deficit with a goal from Tomás Avilés in the 39th minute following a corner kick, but the Fire immediately restored their two-goal cushion just before halftime with a strike from Rominigue Kouamé.
The second half became a showcase for Inter Miami’s veteran forward, Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan striker pulled Inter Miami within one with a goal in the 57th minute and then stunningly tied the game at 3-3 in the 74th minute, assisted by Jordi Alba.
However, the Fire had the final say. Justin Reynolds scored the go-ahead goal in the 80th minute, and Brian Gutiérrez sealed the historic victory with an insurance goal in the 83rd, making the final score 5-3.
Coach Mascherano Takes Responsibility
Following the disappointing loss, which saw Inter Miami slip to a 16-8-7 record, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano shouldered the blame for the performance.
“This defeat is exclusively my responsibility. It wasn’t the names (the players), it was the strategy I chose,” Mascherano said after the game.
The match, originally scheduled for August 30 but postponed due to Inter Miami’s appearance in the Leagues Cup Final, was a crucial win for Chicago. The victory secured the Fire’s spot as a Wild Card contender and improved their standing in the Eastern Conference standings, ending the league’s longest
