D.C. United, playing their first game since 1997 without Ben Olsen as a player or coach, fell to a 2-1 road defeat against the Chicago Fire. Despite improving over some dismal recent performances, United conceded twice on set pieces before halftime, and an own goal from Jonathan Bornstein was not quite enough for the visitors to stage a comeback.
Whether due to a congested schedule or a simple need to change United’s stars, interim head coach Chad Ashton brought six new players into the lineup. Frederic Brillant returned from suspension, while United started Erik Sorga and Gelmin Rivas up front in a 442, leaving normal starter Ola Kamara on the bench.