Chicago Fire Defeat CF Montreal 3-0 in Home Opener

Late goals from Cuypers and Lod seal victory for the Fire

Mar. 3, 2026 at 4:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Chicago Fire secured a 3-0 victory over CF Montréal in their home opener on Saturday. Jonathan Bamba scored in the first half to give the Fire the lead, and the team added two more goals in stoppage time from Cuypers and Lod to seal the win.

Why it matters

The victory marks an important home win for the Fire as they look to build momentum early in the MLS season. The team controlled the match throughout, demonstrating their ability to dominate possession and create scoring chances against a tough conference opponent.

The details

Chicago (1-1) controlled the match from start to finish, outshooting CF Montréal 17-8. Bamba's first-half goal gave the Fire the lead, and late strikes from Cuypers and Lod in stoppage time put the game out of reach for the visitors.

  • The match was played on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
  • Bamba scored in the first half to give the Fire a 1-0 lead.
  • Cuypers and Lod scored in stoppage time to make the final score 3-0.

The players

Jonathan Bamba

A midfielder for the Chicago Fire who scored the opening goal in the first half.

Cuypers

A forward for the Chicago Fire who scored one of the two late goals in stoppage time.

Lod

A midfielder for the Chicago Fire who scored the final goal in stoppage time to seal the 3-0 victory.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We controlled the match from start to finish and deserved the three points today.”

— Raphael Wicky, Head Coach, Chicago Fire

What’s next

The Fire will look to build on this home victory as they prepare to face Eastern Conference rivals New York City FC next weekend.

The takeaway

The Chicago Fire's dominant performance in their home opener demonstrates their potential to be a force in the Eastern Conference this MLS season, as they look to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.