Robert Lewandowski scored his first two MLS goals as Chicago erased an early deficit and secured three points Saturday night.
CHICAGO – Robert Lewandowski delivered a memorable Soldier Field home debut Saturday, scoring twice to lead Chicago Fire FC to a 2-1 comeback victory over Charlotte FC.
Charlotte opened the scoring in the 18th minute. Pep Biel exchanged passes with Idan Toklomati before finishing the move with a shot into the upper corner.
The lead lasted only two minutes. Lewandowski brought Chicago level in the 20th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, recording his first MLS goal and giving the home crowd its first major moment of the night.
The Polish striker completed his brace in the 68th minute, placing a shot into the lower-left corner to give the Fire a 2-1 advantage. Charlotte pressed for an equalizer late and earned a corner during stoppage time, but Chicago protected the lead through the final whistle.
Saturday’s match was Lewandowski’s first home appearance for the Fire at Soldier Field, not his first overall appearance for the club. His two goals turned an early setback into an important home victory and immediately established the veteran forward as the central figure in Chicago’s attack.
The result gave the Fire three points before the club shifts its attention to Leagues Cup competition. Chicago is scheduled to face Necaxa on Thursday, while Charlotte will host Pumas UNAM on Tuesday.
