Tucson, Arizona (Feb. 18, 2023) – Chicago Fire FC fell to Real Salt Lake, 3-0, in the team’s final match of the 2023 Desert Showcase at the Kino Sports Complex in Tucson, Arizona on Saturday.
The Fire created several dangerous chances early in the match, including a near goal-scoring opportunity in the 18th minute as winger Chris Mueller sent a lofted ball into the box. The service was directed towards midfielder Federico Navarro who sent a driven side-volley on frame, but the attempt was denied by Real Salt Lake’s goalkeeper.Â
Despite the Fire’s early chances to score, Real Salt Lake would go on to score all three of its goals in the first half, opening the scoring in the 22nd minute and adding two additional goals in the 40th and 44th minutes, respectively.Â
Ten minutes into the second half, midfielder Jario Torres capitalized on an RSL turnover, driving towards the top of the 18-yard box before slotting a pass to forward Kacper PrzybyÅ‚ko on his right side. PrzybyÅ‚ko placed his shot low and to the right, just deflecting his effort off the goal post.Â
The Fire would find another close chance just two minutes later as Designated Player Xherdan Shaqiri settled a pass at the top of the 18-yard box, before firing a shot towards the left side off the goal that ricocheted off the post.Â
The Fire will now return to Chicago to begin its final preparation for the 2023 MLS regular season campaign. Following a bye during opening weekend, the Club will officially kick start its 2023 season at Soldier Field on Saturday, March 4 at 7:30 p.m. CT against New York City FC. Tickets to the match can be purchased here. The contest will also be broadcast live on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app.
