In a match filled with dramatic twists and a flurry of goals, Chicago Fire FC triumphed over Inter Miami CF with a 5-3 victory, securing their first spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs since 2017. The thrilling encounter, which took place at Inter Miami’s Chase Stadium on September 30, 2025, saw Chicago withstand a fierce second-half comeback before sealing the win with two late goals.
A Goal-Laden First Half
The visiting Chicago side wasted no time in making their intentions clear. Midfielder Dje D’Avilla opened the scoring just 11 minutes into the game with a header from a corner kick. The Fire doubled their advantage in the 31st minute when Jonathan Dean found himself on a breakaway and slotted a low shot past the goalkeeper.

Despite the early setback, Inter Miami fought back. In the 39th minute, defender Tomás Avilés found the net from close range following a scramble in the box after a corner kick, cutting the deficit to 2-1. However, Chicago restored their two-goal cushion just before halftime when Rominigue Kouamé scored in the 43rd minute, sending the teams into the break with the score at 3-1.
Suárez Leads a Spirited Miami Comeback
Inter Miami emerged for the second half with renewed determination, led by veteran striker Luis Suárez. The Uruguayan star pulled a goal back for Miami in the 57th minute with a well-placed finish inside the box, capitalizing on a precise through ball.

The home side’s superstar, Lionel Messi, who leads the MLS with 24 goals, was held scoreless for the second consecutive game. Despite a powerful shot from Messi that hit the woodwork in the 52nd minute, it was Suárez who once again brought the crowd to its feet. In the 74th minute, he completed his brace with a superb curling shot to the far post, leveling the match at 3-3 after a fantastic team play assisted by Jordi Alba.
Chicago’s Decisive Late Strikes
Just as Miami’s comeback seemed complete, Chicago Fire mounted a final, decisive surge. In the 80th minute, homegrown defender Justin Reynolds scored his first-ever goal for his hometown club with a tap-in at the back post, putting the Fire back in front 4-3. The game-winning goal was a milestone moment for Reynolds and the club.
Only three minutes later, Brian Gutiérrez secured the victory for Chicago with a powerful strike from outside the box, extending the lead to 5-3. The two quick goals in the final 10 minutes extinguished Miami’s hopes and cemented a historic win for the Fire.
Playoff Picture and What’s Next
The victory was monumental for Chicago Fire FC (15-11-6), marking their club-record ninth road win of the season and clinching their first postseason appearance in eight years.

For Inter Miami (16-8-7), which had already secured a playoff berth, the loss was a significant blow to their aspirations of winning the Supporters’ Shield, an award for the team with the best regular-season record.
The match, originally scheduled for August 30, was played after being postponed due to Miami’s run to the Leagues Cup Final. The result leaves Inter Miami facing an uphill battle for the top spot in the league standings, while Chicago moves on to the playoffs with a massive confidence boost.
Next, Inter Miami will host the New England Revolution, while Chicago Fire returns home to face Toronto FC.

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