Chicago Fire beat Cruz Azul 2-1 in the Leagues Cup group stage, prevailing through sharper finishing and a stronger defensive response despite an even share of possession. Both sides had 50.0% of the ball, but Cruz Azul generated more attacking volume with 17 shots, five on target and 1.77 xG, compared with Chicago’s 11 attempts, five on target and 1.35 xG. Cruz Azul’s 4-1-4-1 created a greater flow of chances, yet Chicago’s 4-3-3 remained efficient in the decisive areas, turning two of their five shots on target into goals. The visitors’ goalkeeper was a key factor, saving 80.0% of the five efforts he faced and conceding once, while Cruz Azul’s goalkeeper recorded a 60.0% save rate from five shots on target faced. Chicago’s goalkeeper also conceded exactly his 1.0 post-shot expected goals against, underlining a controlled individual performance. Chicago Fire take momentum into the remainder of the group stage.