The Chicago Fire FC are embarking on their 2026 Major League Soccer campaign with renewed determination, following their successful return to the MLS Cup playoffs last season. While their previous playoff run concluded in the first round, the team is focused on continuous improvement, both individually and collectively, as they prepare to face the Houston Dynamo in their season opener. The Dynamo, having undergone significant roster changes, are equally eager for a fresh start, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter.
Chicago Fire FC and Houston Dynamo Prepare for 2026 MLS Season Opener
On a brisk Saturday, February 20th, 2026, the Chicago Fire FC are scheduled to commence their new Major League Soccer season with an away match against the Houston Dynamo. This highly anticipated fixture follows the Fire's commendable achievement in 2025, where they secured a playoff berth for the first time since the 2017 season. Defender Joel Waterman, a key player for the Fire, emphasized the team's ambition to surpass their previous performance, stating that merely reaching the playoffs is no longer the sole measure of success. The Fire concluded the 2025 season eighth in the Eastern Conference standings, triumphing over Orlando City in the wild-card round before being eliminated by the top-seeded Philadelphia Union. Last season, Chicago's formidable offense netted 68 goals, second only to Inter Miami, though their defense conceded 60 goals, ranking them sixth-highest in the league. The club anticipates that Waterman, acquired from CF Montreal in August, will bolster their defensive line for the entire upcoming season. He, along with his teammates, recognizes the importance of maintaining focus and dedication daily. However, the Fire face some early season challenges, with forward Hugo Cuypers sidelined due to a concussion and midfielder Jonathan Bamba recovering from a leg injury. Defender Andrew Gutman is also confirmed to be out with a calf issue, all stemming from preseason setbacks. In contrast, the Houston Dynamo, who finished 12th in the Western Conference in 2025, have been particularly active during the offseason. They have welcomed new Designated Player attackers Mateusz Bogusz and Guilherme, and have seen the return of midfielder Hector Herrera, who joins them after a championship-winning stint with Liga MX side Toluca in 2025. Bogusz, a 24-year-old Polish international, expressed his enthusiasm for the club's direction and the opportunities in Houston. Having previously played two seasons with Los Angeles FC, where he significantly improved his goal tally from three in 28 appearances in 2023 to 15 in 32 games in 2024, Bogusz is eager to contribute to the Dynamo's success.
This upcoming season opener encapsulates the dynamic and competitive spirit of MLS. For the Chicago Fire, it's an opportunity to solidify their position as a playoff contender and demonstrate sustained improvement, while the Houston Dynamo aim to showcase their revamped squad and signal a new era of competitiveness. The match promises to be an engaging start to the 2026 season for both teams, each driven by their unique aspirations and recent experiences.