Andrew Rick – 8

Didn’t have to make many saves thanks to the defense in front of him but stayed composed throughout. Controlled his box well and looked assured under pressure late in the match. Might’ve been beaten late if not for Glesnes’ goal-line clearance, but didn’t make any mistakes.

Jakob Glesnes – 9

A commanding performance capped by a clutch goal-line clearance in stoppage time. Won aerial battles, cleared dangerous balls, and anchored a makeshift backline. Only knock is the yellow card that rules him out of the next match.

Alejandro Bedoya – 8

Thrust into the right back role and tasked with defending one of Chicago’s fastest attackers, Bedoya leaned on his veteran instincts rather than raw pace. In a game where speed wasn’t his forte, his positioning, timely challenges, and intelligent decision-making proved invaluable — especially with a critical block in the closing minutes.

Kai Wagner – 8

Solid defensively and impactful in the attack, especially late in the first half with his corner that led to a second-chance opportunity. Kept Chicago’s wing play quiet and linked up well with the midfield.

Olwethu Makhanya – 7

A steady outing for the young centerback. Held the line well with Glesnes and handled physical duels without any major errors. A strong showing considering the experimental lineup.

Jovan Lukic – 6.5

Put in a lot of effort but had some lapses, including the yellow card that gave Chicago a dangerous free kick. Didn’t impose himself on the game much beyond defensive duties, but didn’t hurt the team either.

Jeremy Rafanello – 6.5

First start of the year and showed decent energy and effort. Didn’t create much but contributed to the team’s press and ball circulation. A solid shift given his limited minutes this season.

Ben Bender – 6.5

Worked hard in midfield and helped the Union maintain shape but didn’t stand out with key passes or moments. Subbed off after 70 minutes. A dependable if unspectacular outing.

Indiana Vassilev – 7.5

Showed ambition with a rocket shot late in the first half that forced a save. Was lively and unafraid to take initiative in the attack. Also contributed defensively with tracking back.

Bruno Damiani – 8

Stepped up to convert the decisive penalty with confidence. With key attackers missing, he filled the role admirably and was a steady presence up front.

Chris Donovan – 7.5

Played a pivotal role in the match’s decisive moment, drawing the handball that led to the game-winning penalty. Showed excellent vision in the final third early on, creating space and setting up teammates with clever passes. Added value defensively too, including a well-timed header to clear a dangerous Chicago chance.

Substitutes:

(65′) Jesus Bueno – 7

Brought fresh energy to midfield. Broke up plays and helped the Union stay compact as Chicago pressed late. Did the job asked of him with composure and grit.

(70′) Marcus Anderson – 6.5

Didn’t get many touches after coming on, but his presence helped stretch the Chicago defense and gave Union some much-needed fresh legs up top. No heroics this time, but solid minutes.

(88′) Edward Davis III – N/A

A special moment as he made his MLS debut in the final minutes. Not much time to influence the game, but showed good movement and composure in his brief cameo. A confidence-building debut for the homegrown.

Geiger Counter – Greg Dopka – 5

Dopka’s first MLS match started on a promising note with a well-managed first half, but the consistency unraveled quickly after the break. Whether it was getting in the way of active play or a string of questionable calls — particularly against the Union — the second half felt like a different referee had taken over. A debut with glimpses of control, but plenty of room for improvement.