The Union started their “XV” campaign with a win at Saprissa, and now they return to Subaru Park for their home opener on Saturday, 2/24. Let’s dive into some things to know for the game versus Chicago Fire, both on and off the field.

Saprissa Away Recap

The Union won the Concacaf Champions Cup away leg at Saprissa on Tuesday in thrilling fashion, coming from behind to win 3-2. Julian Carranza proved to be the man of the match with a hat trick, his third of his Union career (the others were both against DC United in 2022). While the Union seemed to be in trouble in the first half with lackluster play and a horrendous own goal by Jakob Glesnes, the boys in blue showed tenacity and resiliency in the second half. Kai Wagner had a beautiful cross to Carranza for the first goal. The Union pulled ahead 2-1 in the 75th minute thanks to some great passing from Sullivan and Gazdag to Carranza, and once again four minutes later to make it 3-1 and a Carranza hat trick. While the Union gave up a cheap goal in the waning seconds of regulation, a 3-2 victory on the road after a dreadful start was quite the end to a rollercoaster of a match, and put the Union in a good position for their home leg next Tuesday, 2/27.

The Boys are Back in Town: Home Opener vs Chicago Fire

The Union faithful are eagerly anticipating seeing the team on their home turf after several months’ hiatus. In what promises to be a chilly home opener, the Union will take on the Chicago Fire for the first regular season MLS match. What can Union fans expect at this first match? Kyle will be covering the on-field side, so check out his blog post for that. This will preview be about the social/fan side of the experience.

For pregame festivities, the Sons of Ben lot on Reaney St. will be the place to be. With their all you can eat and drink tailgate deal, DJ, and great crowd, you can’t go wrong. Look for Kyle and me there, and please say hello! You never are without friends at the SOB tailgate. You can join the march at around 6:30 when it’s a 7:30 game. Across the street, which is now fully paved by the way, is Union Yards. This spot has food, drink, and entertainment before and after the games. According to communications from the Union, this area will be renovated this spring and include an indoor/outdoor brew hall/beer garden. You can also grab brews pre- and postgame at the Larimer Beer Company on Engle St.

Be sure to stop at the Plaza outside Subaru Park for family-friendly activities, games, and attractions. I always make it a point to stop at the rescue dogs area and the pups that are up for adoption. The partnership Subaru has with animal rescue organizations is fantastic.

No trip to Subaru Park for me is complete without a stop in the Team Store to check out the merch. As discussed in previous article “The Union are Back!” there are some great new items for sale. Are you a season ticket member? Remember that you get a small discount! I have already gotten the hockey jersey pictured below and a knit hat- I definitely recommend it. The Phang squishmallows are adorable and a must-have for kids.

For all the details from Coach Jim Curtin’s pregame presser, be sure to check out Kyle’s article. We are looking forward to a great game and seeing the Union fan community that we have enjoyed getting to know so well the last few years. If you will be there, let us know in the comments. Go Union!