Robert Lewandowski scored his first double in the American league as Chicago Fire came from behind to beat Charlotte, giving the former Barcelona striker a memorable first appearance in front of the club’s home supporters.
A crowd of 32,183 gathered at Soldier Field in Chicago to watch Lewandowski make his home debut. The Poland international responded with two outstanding finishes to inspire the Fire’s comeback after Charlotte had taken an early lead.
Pep Biel put the visitors ahead in the 18th minute, but Charlotte’s advantage lasted only 93 seconds. Lewandowski levelled with a precise low right-footed shot that beat the goalkeeper at the near post.
The striker completed his brace after the interval. He controlled a pass from Finland international Robin Lod before producing an excellent finish from inside the penalty area, once again giving the goalkeeper no chance.
The result meant Lewandowski made an immediate impact in his first match in front of Chicago Fire’s supporters, while his two goals turned a difficult start into victory for the home side.
Griezmann assists 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 contribute an assist for Orlando City’s second goal, but his involvement was not enough to prevent the visitors from leaving without a point.
There was further late drama in Philadelphia, where Philadelphia Union overturned a two-goal deficit during the final 20 minutes against Atlanta United. The visitors had played with 10 men for more than an hour, but the Union eventually completed their comeback.
Milan Iloski began the revival in the 73rd minute. Neil Pierre then equalised in the 96th minute before Ezequiel Alladoh completed the turnaround one minute later.
Montreal also recovered from a two-goal disadvantage, drawing 2-2 at home with New England Revolution.
The visitors established control before half-time through the Spanish forward Carles Gil and Dor Turgeman. Montreal responded after the break, with Colombian defender Brayan Vera and Prince Owusu scoring to secure a share of the points.
The meeting between the leading sides in the Western Conference ended level as Los Angeles FC drew 1-1 with Vancouver Whitecaps.
Heung-min Son gave the Los Angeles team the lead, but Vancouver recovered when Germany international Thomas Muller converted a penalty in the 76th minute. His spot-kick earned the Whitecaps a point from the contest.
