Chicago Fire 1, St. Louis CITY 0 | Man of the Match

In both matches this week against St. Louis, Xherdan Shaqiri captained and helped lead his team to victory. Particularly in the first half, the Swiss icon was pulling the strings for the Chicago Fire in what was a commanding performance.

https://twitter.com/meninred97/status/1657463494885756933?s=20

The veteran played some exquisite balls over the top and some killer passes into the paths of on-running Fire players as he proved to be the Fire’s best player on the offensive side of the ball. The Swiss DP connected the Fire today in the middle of the park as all of the Fire’s attacks flowed through him.

Not only was Shaqiri able to find the killer pass today, but was also extremely solid in possession. Up until being reduced to 10 men, St. Louis barely gave the Fire’s central players any time to breathe on the ball. Even while under immense pressure, Shaq was able to turn his man or find a quick pass to break the press and get his team out of tight spots.

Shaqiri’s biggest moment of the match came in the 40th minute when his out-swinging free-kick found Rafa Czichos, who was able to poke the ball into the back of the net in what was the only goal of the match.

After a disappointing start to the season, it looks like Shaq may be coming to life again and Fire fans will hope to see his good run of form continue in the coming matches.