Detroit City Wire

Detroit City FC began their 2025 season at Keyworth Stadium with a 2-2 draw against Birmingham Legion FC. Darren Smith scored first for Detroit in the 20th minute, but Birmingham equalized seven minutes later through a deflected shot. Ben Morris then restored Detroit's lead in the 33rd minute. However, a late own goal by Stephen Carroll from a Birmingham free kick tied the match.

Head Coach Danny Dichio kept his starting lineup unchanged from previous matches. Carlos Saldaña started as goalkeeper, with Alex Villanueva, Stephen Carroll, Shane Wiedt, and Michael Bryant forming the defense. The midfield included Marcello Polisi, Jay Chapman, and Jeciel Cedeño. Forwards Ben Morris, Darren Smith, and Rhys Williams completed the lineup.

The opening ten minutes saw Detroit City controlling play but struggling to break through Birmingham's defense. Their persistence paid off when Alex Villanueva's cross found Darren Smith for the first goal. Birmingham quickly responded with Ronaldo Damus' throw-in leading to an equalizer.

Ben Morris regained Detroit's lead after converting his rebound in the 33rd minute. Despite several changes during the second half, including substitutions of Morey Doner for Rhys Williams and Ryan Williams and Jordan Adebayo-Smith replacing Jay Chapman and Darren Smith respectively, Detroit could not secure victory.

Birmingham's Sebastian Tregarthen received a yellow card in the 76th minute for a late tackle. Shortly after, an own goal by Stephen Carroll off a free kick brought the score to 2-2.

Detroit City's unbeaten streak extended to 12 matches following this result. They last lost on August 24th against FC Tulsa. Next weekend, they will face Louisville City FC away before returning home to play Monterey Bay FC in two weeks.

For ticket information and updates about Detroit City FC matches, visit www.detcityfc.com/tickets or follow them on social media platforms like X and Facebook under @DetroitCityFC and Instagram under @detroitcityfootballclub.