MLS Chicago Fire FC

Blanco Penalty Kick Secures Semifinal Berth for Fire

Published on June 27, 2009 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Chicago Fire FC News Release


CHICAGO, IL - The Chicago Fire fell to the Tigres UANL 2-1 tonight in a SuperLiga Group A match, but advanced to the semifinals of the tournament with six points and a goal differential of +1 in three games played. The Fire will play their semifinal match on July 15 - location and opponent to be determined.

Tigres UANL midfielder Armando Pulido gave the Mexican side a one goal advantage with a goal in the 37th minute of play. Despite out shooting their opponents 14 to eight, the Fire remained down a goal heading into halftime.

Pulido scored his second goal of the match in the 61st minute as he carried the ball through the Fire defense and placed a shot in the back of net for a 2-0 lead.

The Fire continued to attack throughout the second half and earned a penalty kick opportunity in the 84th minute as Patrick Nyarko suffered a foul inside the penalty area. Fire designated player Cuauhtémoc Blanco lined up for the kick and placed his shot in the left side of the net for the Fire's lone goal. The Fire continued to press in the attack, but the Tigres defense held strong until the final whistle.

Despite the 2-1 loss, the Fire advance to the semifinals of the 2009 SuperLiga tournament on July 15. Locations, opponents and times will be announced at a later date.

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Major League Soccer Stories from June 27, 2009


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