Chicago took a Chance At Glory Vs NY Red bulls on 07/26
The team at Stage Riot Media was invited out to cover our very first MLS game of the year on behalf of Chicago Fire FC, as they took on the New York Red Bulls.
Heading into the match, Chicago came in as the favorite, riding a strong wave of momentum from recent performances. NY wasn’t an easy opponent either—they’ve had a solid run of results at home and were looking to secure valuable points on the road during this crucial stretch of the season.
The atmosphere at Soldier Field was electric. This wasn’t just a regular game—Chicago showed just how much love and respect the team has from its fans. To top it off, this match was also part of the second night of the Summer Concert Series.
That concert series is what originally brought the Stage Riot Media team out. The Chicago Fire organization launched this post-game concert initiative to bridge the gap between soccer and the local music scene, drawing in not just sports fans, but music lovers as well. What caught our eye was the opportunity to cover not just the match, but also Chicago’s very own Chance the Rapper, who was headlining this installment.
As kickoff began, Chicago came out firing—putting New York under heavy pressure early. Key players like Philip Zickernagel, Hugo Cuypers, and Brian Gutiérrez were making their presence felt. From midfield dominance to aggressive wing play, Chicago hit NY with everything they had.
Despite creating countless chances, the Fire were kept at bay in the first half thanks to a solid performance by NY goalkeeper Carlos Coronel. On the other end, New York had a few looks of their own, but Chicago’s defense held strong, keeping the score level.
Late in the second half, the Fire’s persistence paid off. A defensive error by NY led to a penalty for Chicago. Hugo Cuypers stepped up and calmly buried it, giving the Fire a well-earned 1–0 lead. Chicago held on for the win, keeping their playoff hopes alive and extending their unbeaten streak.
Once the final whistle blew, it was time to reset the stage—literally. Soldier Field stayed packed as fans waited for Chance the Rapper to take the spotlight. The moment he stepped out, the crowd erupted. Kicking off with fan favorites like “All Night” and “No Problem,” the energy was undeniable.
One of the most memorable moments of the night was Chance announcing that this was his first-ever performance at Soldier Field. For someone who’s been a staple in the industry for years, it was both a surprise and a special milestone. His set felt personal—tailor-made for his hometown. It wasn’t just a concert; it was a love letter to the city that raised him. Chicago will always welcome Chance, and it’s clear the city is proud to call him one of its own.
The experience that Chicago Fire FC has created with the Summer Concert Series is incredible. It’s a unique way to draw in a diverse crowd and create a full night of entertainment—from soccer action to live music. I truly hope this series continues. There’s something special about watching the Fire play and then getting treated to a concert right after—especially when it ends in a win!
Huge thank you to the Chicago Fire team for the opportunity. We highly recommend checking out a Fire game (or two!) for a night full of fun and great memories. I’ll definitely be back—next time, as a fan in the stands.