Robert Lewandowski scored his first Major League Soccer brace as Chicago Fire came from behind to beat Charlotte FC, producing a decisive display in front of his new home supporters.
A crowd of 32,183 gathered at Soldier Field in Chicago to watch the former Barcelona striker make his first appearance for the club at their home stadium, according to Spanish newspaper Marca. Lewandowski responded with two outstanding goals to turn the match in Chicago Fire’s favour.
Charlotte took the lead in the 18th minute through Spanish midfielder Pep Biel. However, their advantage lasted only 93 seconds before Lewandowski brought the hosts level.
The Poland international met the moment with a precise right-footed shot along the ground, finding the far side of the goal beyond the goalkeeper’s reach at the near post.
Lewandowski completed his personal double after the interval. He took advantage of an assist from Finland international Robin Lod before beating the goalkeeper with an impressive finish from inside the penalty area.
The result gave Chicago Fire a memorable comeback victory on Lewandowski’s first appearance in front of their own fans, with the striker immediately making a significant impact for his new club.
Griezmann creates but Orlando City beaten
Antoine Griezmann was unable to score as Orlando City were beaten 3-2 by New York Red Bulls.
The former Atletico de Madrid forward did provide the assist for Orlando’s second goal, but his contribution was not enough to prevent the visitors from leaving without a point.
There was also late drama in Philadelphia, where Philadelphia Union recovered from a two-goal deficit to defeat Atlanta United. Atlanta played with 10 men for more than an hour, but still appeared on course for victory until a remarkable finish from the home side.
Milan Iloski started the comeback in the 73rd minute. Neil Pierre then equalised in the sixth minute of added time, before Ezequiel Alladoh completed the turnaround one minute later in the 97th minute.
In Canada, CF Montreal overturned a two-goal half-time deficit to draw 2-2 with New England Revolution.
Carles Gil and Dor Turgeman scored for the visitors in the opening half, putting New England in a commanding position. Colombian defender Brayan Vera then pulled one back for the Canadian side before Prince Owusu restored parity.
The meeting between the leading teams in the Western Conference also ended level, with Los Angeles FC and Vancouver Whitecaps drawing 1-1.
Heung-Min Son gave the Los Angeles side the lead, but a penalty converted by Germany international Thomas Muller earned Vancouver a share of the points in the 76th minute.