Rafael Marquez helped his new side keep a clean sheet as Chicago Fire and New York Red Bulls played out a 0-0 draw in what was also the first Major League Soccer meeting between former Arsenal team-mates Thierry Henry and Freddie Ljungberg.
Ljungberg made his first home start for Chicago, but the Fire were unable to breach a Red Bulls defence containing Mexico captain Marquez.
Henry played for 45 minutes up front for the Red Bulls, alongside former Aston Villa striker Juan Pablo Angel.
Seattle Sounders, Ljungberg's former club, claimed a 2-0 win over Houston Dynamo.
Freddy Montero netted after 64 minutes and Alvaro Fernandez added a second two minutes from time.
Substitute Jeff Cunningham scored twice as FC Dallas came from behind to beat 10-man Philadelphia Union 3-1.
Philadelphia went in front through Alejandro Moreno after nine minutes, but goalkeeper Brad Knighton was dismissed as he conceded a penalty which was converted by David Ferreira after 22 minutes.
Cunningham then struck after 75 minutes and 81 minutes to earn the hosts three points.
