In the United States, Robert Lewandowski, the former Barcelona star, made his second appearance for the Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer (MLS) during a match against New York City FC (NYCFC) at Yankee Stadium. The match took place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, and ended with a 3-1 victory for NYCFC. Lewandowski, who joined the Chicago Fire during the World Cup break after his contract with Barcelona expired, played for 45 minutes and took two shots during the game. His presence on the field was highly anticipated by fans, especially in the Bronx, where many were eager to see the world-class talent in action. NYCFC forward Malachi Jones expressed admiration for Lewandowski, noting that he grew up watching him play and recognized his prolific goal-scoring ability. However, Jones emphasized the importance of focusing on the game rather than idolizing Lewandowski during play. NYCFC head coach Pascal Jansen acknowledged the challenge posed by Lewandowski's arrival, stating that it adds another layer of difficulty for teams facing the Chicago Fire. He noted that the dynamics of the game may change as Chicago seeks to utilize Lewandowski's skills effectively. The match highlighted the growing competitiveness of MLS, with league officials like Garber noting the improvements in the league over the years and the increasing interest from top players worldwide. Lewandowski's move to MLS is seen as a significant development for the league, which continues to attract high-profile talent and enhance its reputation.