Sporting KC vs. Chicago Fire recap: Fire fail to move into first place with 2-0 loss

The Chicago Fire had a chance to take MLS' Eastern Conference lead away from Sporting KC on Friday.

The league's best defensive squad -- Sporting KC -- did what they do best. They didn't allow their opponents to score. In doing that, they earned a 2-0 win and clinched a playoff spot.

Graham Zusi scored twice for Sporting KC, as they forced the Fire into its first scoreless effort since July 18. The Fire (16-9-5) hadn't scored less than two goals in their last eight matches before Friday.

Sporting KC (17-7-7) has allowed an MLS-low 25 goals this season, and opened up a five-point lead over Chicago, 58-53.

The match was 1-0 until stoppage time, when Zusi knocked in an insurance goal in the 96th minute. He leads MLS with 14 assists.

It was Chicago's first loss to Sporting KC in three matches this year. The Fire took a 1-0 decision June 29 and a 2-1 win May 12.