Toronto FC is gearing up for its highly anticipated home opener against the Chicago Fire on March 15, 2025, as coaches Robin Fraser and Gregg Berhalter, former teammates on the U.S. national soccer team, prepare to clash once again, this time from the sideline.
Fraser and Berhalter, who played shoulder to shoulder at center back, have mutual respect for each other's styles and achievements. "He was a great player to play with, actually," Berhalter reflected about Fraser. "I have a lot of respect for Robin, and for what he’s done, and him as a coach, and how he organizes his team... I hear nothing but good things from the players he’s coached."
Fraser reciprocated these sentiments, admitting, "Gregg is as smart as any center back I’ve played with in terms of just knowing how to manipulate attackers." This shared history adds layers of intrigue to the matchup, with both coaches eager to secure their first significant victories at their current clubs.
Heading to the BMO Field, Toronto FC will be aiming for its first win of the season after starting with two losses and one draw, sporting an unfortunate record of 0-2-1. This includes their most recent match, which resulted in a 2-0 defeat against FC Cincinnati. On the other hand, Chicago Fire holds slightly more momentum at 1-1-1, having recently triumphed over FC Dallas with a remarkable 3-1 victory. This win was particularly noteworthy as it marked the first time the Fire scored at least three goals after the 80th minute for a come-from-behind road victory, highlighting their potential to capitalize under pressure.
Berhalter acknowledged the team’s mixed performance: "I think it’s mixed. There are times when we’re doing really well and times when we’re not doing so well. We did score seven goals, which is positive. We’ve also let up seven goals, which is negative. Six of those goals were really avoidable, and we can do much more to improve." Meanwhile, Fraser acknowledged his team's character and resilience, saying, "There are many good, hard-working players trying to do exactly what’s asked of them. When we do, I feel we’ve had pretty decent moments. But we just need to get to the point where we reward ourselves for some hard work."
Despite these positive notes, both teams are grappling with injury issues. Toronto FC will be missing defender Richie Laryea, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury after being forced off during the last match against Orlando. Laryea's absence is particularly concerning as he may not only miss this weekend's match but also the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League semifinal against Mexico. "It’s likely he won’t be back this week or next; it won’t be immediate," Fraser noted, hinting at a medium-term recovery.
Chicago Fire is also dealing with injury problems, as key players Kellyn Acosta and Chase Gasper are among those ruled out for the match. This leaves the Fire with limited options, but Berhalter remains optimistic: "We are thin, but that's part of it. And we’re going to have to get through it." On the contrary, there is uncertainty surrounding Italian star Lorenzo Insigne, who has been training with Toronto FC but has yet to dress this season. While Fraser confirmed Insigne is available, it’s clear the club is searching for players whose style aligns more with their current tactical framework.
Historical records indicate Toronto holds the upper hand with a 14-12-13 advantage against Chicago FC, particularly at home. Still, they have struggled against the Fire, having gone winless for five consecutive matches with two draws and three losses. The last time Toronto FC defeated Chicago at home was back in May 2022. They look to turn over this disappointing streak and gain momentum as they play their 19th home opener, where their record stands at 9 wins, 6 draws, and 3 losses.
The weather for Saturday poses another layer, with temperatures expected to hover around 13 degrees Celsius and potential showers, leading Fraser to remark about the pitch conditions after enduring winter weather. "It’s not great; I think it will chop up as we go. The ground crew has done well, but we also know what this winter has been like," he noted, preparing for conditions affecting play.
With the kickoff set for 2:30 p.m., fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as two respected coaches with storied pasts face off, both determined for their first home victory of the young season.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on March 14, 2025.