Chattanooga FC Defeated Chicago Fire II to Clinch Seed
A second-half goal secured a win and a number two conference seed for Chattanooga.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Soccer
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Chattanooga FC concluded their 2026 MLS NEXT Pro regular season by defeating Chicago Fire FC II 1-0. The result secured the number two seed in the Eastern Conference for the club.
Why it matters
Securing the number two seed ensures Chattanooga FC will host their upcoming playoff match, providing a strategic advantage as they pursue the championship title.
Chattanooga FC finished the season with 15 total wins and 56 points. Alex McGrath reached 30 all-time club goals, while Farid Sar-Sar celebrated his 92nd appearance.
The players
Alex McGrath
The forward scored his 30th all-time goal for the club during this match.
Farid Sar-Sar
The veteran player reached 92 total appearances for the organization.
Chattanooga FC
This professional soccer club finished their regular season with 56 points.
Chicago Fire FC II
The team serves as the reserve squad for the professional Chicago Fire organization.
The details
Alex McGrath scored the decisive goal in the 52nd minute after pressuring the goalkeeper, leading to a ricocheted ball. The Chattanooga backline maintained the clean sheet despite Chicago holding 70% of the possession throughout the match.
Timeline
September 20, 2026: Chattanooga FC defeated Chicago Fire FC II.
September 23, 2026: The Pick-Your-Opponent show airs at 1:00 p.m. ET.
October 18, 2026: Chattanooga FC hosts their home playoff match.
Season Trajectory
This win cements Chattanooga FC as a top contender, directly positioning them for a home-field advantage in the post-season bracket. Participation in the upcoming selection show follows the established framework of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro Pick-Your-Opponent show.
The number two seed guarantees that Chattanooga fans will see their team compete in a home playoff match on October 18. The team recorded 10 clearances and a clean sheet despite being held to just 30% possession in the final match.
The takeaway
Maintaining defensive discipline despite low possession proved critical for Chattanooga FC in securing their final regular-season victory. Fans should prepare for the upcoming playoff schedule as the club transitions into the post-season tournament format.
What happens next
Chattanooga FC will participate in the Pick-Your-Opponent show on September 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. ET to determine their playoff opponent. The club will then host a home playoff match on October 18, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the current standing of the team, visit the Soccer section.
More information
To purchase tickets or find event details, visit the Chattanooga FC ticket portal.
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