Chicago Fire advances to Open Cup semifinals
Even Frank Yallop noticed the difference after Wednesday night's 3-1 Chicago Fire victory in the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals.
"I can smile," Yallop said to start his postgame news conference after knocking off Orlando City.
With his team in last place in Major League Soccer, Yallop and his players are enjoying their run to the Open Cup semifinals.
"Massive," Yallop added. "I've sat here long enough and said to you (reporters), when we have our guys on the field we are pretty good. And it showed tonight. We had difference-makers out there, and they were."
The Fire got an early goal from Patrick Nyarko and a pair of late goals from Kennedy Igboananike, the first off a rebound of a David Accam shot in the 87th minute. Igboananike put the game away with another goal in extra time.
The Fire will play at the Philadelphia Union on Aug. 11 in the semifinals.
Yallop asked to enjoy the victory a few minutes before talking about the Fire's pursuit of Chelsea legend Didier Drogba.
"We're waiting on an answer in the next, probably, 48 hours," Yallop said of the 37-year-old forward, also being pursued by MLS side Montreal.
"That's basically it. … We're just waiting for sort of a decision from their side and what way he wants to go. He has choices. We feel we put a very good pitch in. He's very happy with what we've done. But again it's up to the person himself to choose, and we'll see."
Igboananike, a designated player and forward who has struggled despite his outsized contract, came off the bench in the 66th minute. He said he's OK with Drogba joining the team, even if that might mean less playing time.
"I think I've heard some of the news or rumors, but I don't know if it is true or not," Igboananike said. "But I think it's going to be great to have him. Great energy on the team and great player, so we're looking forward to if it's going to be possible."
The Fire started off right, taking a 1-0 lead in the third minute. Shaun Maloney sent a back pass to goalkeeper Jon Busch, who launched a long ball upfield to the speedy Nyarko.
Nyarko, working his way back from last season's torn ACL, beat Orlando City goalkeeper Tally Hall on the break.
The Lions pulled even in the 56th minute. Eric Avila fed rookie Cyle Larin, and Larin's shot left Busch no chance.