Chicago Fire FC delivered a statement performance on Saturday night, dismantling D.C. United 7-1 at Audi Field in one of the most lopsided results of the 2025 MLS season. The emphatic win capped off Chicago’s five-game road trip and tied their club record for most goals in a single match.
Forward Tom Barlow was the star of the night, netting his first career MLS hat trick in his first start of the season. Midfielder Philip Zinckernagel continued his impressive form, scoring and assisting for the seventh straight road game. Maren Haile-Selassie, Jonathan Bamba, and Brian Gutiérrez also found the net as Chicago notched its league-leading sixth away victory this year.
Chicago took control early, with Haile-Selassie opening the scoring before the 10-minute mark. The Fire’s relentless attack saw Barlow score twice before halftime, giving the visitors a 4-0 lead at the break. Zinckernagel and Barlow added to the tally in the second half, with D.C. United’s Dominique Badji grabbing a consolation goal in the 60th minute.
The result leaves Chicago Fire FC (7-5-4, 25 points) firmly in playoff contention, while D.C. United (4-8-6, points) faces questions after a difficult night at home The Fire’s seven-goal outburst matched their previous club record set in 2001 and was just one goal shy of the MLS record for goals by a visiting team.
With both teams missing key players due to international duty, Chicago’s depth proved decisive. The Fire now look ahead with momentum, while D.C. United must regroup quickly as the season heats up.
