Chicago Fire 1, Columbus Crew SC 1 | 2018 MLS Match Recap

The longest losing streak in Chicago Fire history is now history, but the winless run extends as Columbus Crew SC found a late equalizer in a 1-1 draw Thursday night at Toyota Park in a Heineken Rivalry Week clash.

Niko Hansen leveled for Columbus (11-8-7) three minutes from full time, pouncing on a deflected cross and firing past Stefan Cleveland for his first goal of the season.

Nemanja Nikolic put Chicago (6-15-6) in front in the 67th minute, capitalizing on miscommunication among the Crew SC defenders to intercept a poor Milton Valenzuela pass and slip a low finish past Zack Steffen for his 12th goal of the season.

The Fire had a chance for a stoppage-time winner, but Brandt Bronico put his open shot into Steffen’s chest.

Goals

• 67’ — CHI — Nemanja Nikolic | WATCH
• 87’ — CLB — Niko Hansen | WATCH

Three Things

THE BIG PICTURE: The Fire losing streak ends at eight, but there was no post-match celebration because of conceding the late equalizer. Crew SC were uncharacteristically poor, but Hansen bailed them out big time.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH
: The bounce was fortunate, but Hansen made sure to bury his first goal of the season to secure an important point for Crew SC.

MAN OF THE MATCH: Stefan Cleveland did an admirable job in just his second MLS start. The best of his five saves came in the first half when he dived to his left to parry away from a charging Gyasi Zardes.

Next Up

• CHI: Sunday, Sept. 16 vs. Orlando City SC (5 pm ET | FS1 - Full TV & Streaming info)
• CLB: Saturday, Sept. 1 vs. NYCFC (8 pm ET | TV & Streaming info)