Chicago Fire Faces Atlanta United In Key MLS Clash

CHICAGO (May 10, 2025) – Chicago Fire FC is set to host Atlanta United FC in a pivotal MLS clash at Soldier Field this Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. EDT, and fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. Both teams are looking to improve their standings in the Eastern Conference after recent draws.

The Chicago Fire comes into this match following a 0-0 draw against Orlando City SC, while Atlanta United FC managed a 1-1 stalemate against Nashville SC. With Chicago currently sitting at 10th place in the conference with a record of 3 wins, 4 losses, and 4 draws, they are eager to build on their recent performance. Atlanta, on the other hand, finds itself in 12th place with a record of 2 wins, 5 losses, and 4 draws, and is desperate to turn their season around.

In terms of goal statistics, Chicago has scored 18 goals this season, but has also allowed 22, showcasing some defensive vulnerabilities. Atlanta has struggled even more offensively, scoring just 12 goals while conceding 20. The Fire ranks seventh in the league with 55 shots on goal, averaging 5.0 per game, while Atlanta is sitting at 9th with 56 corner kicks drawn, averaging 5.1 per game.

Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter has made two changes to the starting lineup that recorded the team’s second clean sheet of the season. Goalkeeper Jeff Gal will be making his first start in Major League Soccer, having debuted in the 40th minute against Orlando. He will be looking to help secure the Fire's third clean sheet in a week following a 4-0 victory over Detroit City FC in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 32.

Sam Rogers returns to the Starting XI for the eighth time this season, joining captain Jack Elliott in the backline, along with Jonathan Dean and Andrew Gutman at right and left back, respectively. The Homegrown trio of Mauricio Pineda, Sergio Oregel, Jr., and Brian Gutiérrez will start together for the second consecutive MLS match and fifth time this season.

Hugo Cuypers, who has been in fine form, is seeking his league-leading eighth goal in MLS play, as well as his ninth across all competitions. He has started every match this season for Chicago and has been instrumental in the team's offensive efforts. Meanwhile, Jonathan Bamba is just one assist shy of the league lead, aiming to contribute significantly to the Fire's attacking play.

In terms of injuries, Chicago will be without several key players, including goalkeeper Chris Brady, who is suspended, along with defenders Leonardo Barroso, Carlos Terán, and Chase Gasper, all dealing with lower-body injuries. Midfielder David Poreba is also sidelined due to injury, and Chris Mueller is unavailable as he is on paternity leave. The absence of these players will undoubtedly test Chicago’s depth.

Atlanta United is facing its own challenges, as leading scorer Emmanuel Latte Lath is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. This leaves Jamal Thiaré likely to take up the striker role. In addition, midfielder Tristan Muyumba is out with an adductor injury, while defensive stalwarts Stian Gregersen and Derrick Williams are also ruled out for this match. The squad's depth will be severely tested, particularly in central defense, where Luis Abram, Noah Cobb, and Efraín Morales are expected to step up.

Historically, the matchup between Chicago Fire and Atlanta United has been closely contested, with their last meeting ending in a draw. As both teams look to climb the Eastern Conference table, this match is crucial for their aspirations. Chicago's recent form, buoyed by a strong performance in the U.S. Open Cup, gives them a slight edge, but Atlanta's need for points cannot be underestimated.

As fans gear up for the match, predictions are leaning towards Chicago as the most likely winner. Dimers' advanced MLS model gives Chicago a 45.8% chance of winning, while Atlanta has a 30.9% chance, and a draw sits at 23.3%. The over/under for total goals is set at 2.5, with a 61% chance of going over according to the model.

In terms of betting odds, Chicago is favored with moneyline odds of +125, while Atlanta sits at +200, and a draw is at +275. The top three predicted final scores include a 1-1 draw (10.5% probability), a 2-1 victory for Chicago (9.2% probability), and a 1-0 win for Chicago (7.5% probability).

As the match approaches, both teams will be looking to capitalize on their opportunities. With injuries and suspensions impacting both squads, the stage is set for an exciting encounter. Fans will be watching closely to see if Chicago can maintain their unbeaten streak at home or if Atlanta will find a way to turn their fortunes around.

Stay tuned for what promises to be an engaging match between two Eastern Conference rivals, as Chicago Fire FC hosts Atlanta United FC at Soldier Field. The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable as both teams vie for crucial points in their pursuit of playoff positions.