Red-hot Hugo Cuypers enters MLS record books in Chicago Fire victory | OneFootball

By Cal Meachem

You won't find a striker in MLS as consistent (and clutch) as Hugo Cuypers so far this season.

Chicago Fire FC's star forward continued to make history during his side's 3-1 comeback win at D.C. United, netting the game-winning goal to deliver a much-needed three points at Audi Field.

In the process, Cuypers became just the fifth player in league history to score at least one goal in nine consecutive games.

He's the first MLS player to do so since LAFC legend Carlos Vela, who bagged a goal in 11 straight matches during the 2019-20 season.

The Belgian is officially in rarified air.

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Standout striker

In a year in which so many strikers have impressed, Cuypers has stood out amongst the pack.

He currently leads a jammed-packed Golden Boot presented by Audi race with 12 goals, one goal ahead of reigning back-to-back Landon Donovan MLS MVP winner Lionel Messi and FC Dallas striker Petar Musa.

"I think the Golden Boot has always been a consequence of the work I put in," said Chicago's Belgian star postgame. "Of course, I want to score goals, that's out of the question. But, it's not a focus because I know what I have to put in to get there.

"For me, it's a reward and a consequence, not a goal."

Perhaps most impressive, Cuypers has scored 12 goals in just nine matches, having found the back of the net in every game he's played so far this season. 

Simply put, no defense has been able to contain him yet.

With the midweek victory, Chicago move up to fourth in the Eastern Conference (20 points; 6W-4L-2D) as they look to try and chase down conference leaders Nashville SC.

They'll travel north to take on CF Montréal on Saturday (4:30 pm ET | Apple TV), providing an opportunity for Cuypers to extend his historic start.

HIGHLIGHTS: DC United vs. Chicago Fire FC | May 13, 2026