In early April, Xherdan Shaqiri was injured in the game against the Orlando Pirates and had to be substituted after 19 minutes. The Nati star missed two games due to the injury. On Saturday afternoon (local time) he made his comeback for Chicago Fire – immediately in the starting XI.
When things got dangerous on the Chicago side, Shaqiri had his feet in the game. The 30-year-old immediately took on the role of leader. He cheered on his teammates and was always involved in discussions with opponents. He almost secured his second goal contribution, but central defender Czichos was unable to convert his cross. Nevertheless, there was praise from the commentator team: “It’s the kind of magic that the fans want from their number 10.”
Minnesota then took the lead in the 72nd minute of the game. Reynoso benefited from a mistake made by Chicago in the build-up game. Things got even worse for the Shaqiri team. Navarro was sent off after his second foul. Shaqiri was substituted eight minutes before the end of regulation time. From the bench, he watched his side concede two more goals. Minnesota won the game 3-0.
Chicago has now lost two of eight games. The problem in the statistics: There were only two wins. On the offensive, the shoe pinches. You only scored goals in two games – you won those two. Shaqiri continues on May 1st. In the home stadium you meet the New York Red Bulls.