TORONTO - A storied past and mutual respect take center stage as Toronto FC and Chicago Fire FC coaches Robin Fraser and Gregg Berhalter, former teammates on the U.S. national team, prepare to face each other on March 15, 2025. With similar trajectories after recent job losses, both coaches are hoping to establish their identities for their respective teams as the MLS season progresses.
Fraser, the current head coach of Toronto FC, and Berhalter, who leads the Fire, were once known for their formidable partnership as center backs on the pitch. "He was a great player to play with, actually," Berhalter remarked of Fraser, expressing his deep respect for his colleague. "I have a lot of respect for Robin, and for what he’s done - how he organizes his team and leads his players. … I hear nothing but good things from the players he’s coached." This mutual admiration fuels their competitive rivalry as both teams seek their first home victory of the season.
Toronto FC currently sits at the bottom of the league with no wins and just one point from three games. Chicago, on the other hand, finds itself on the upswing after a recent impressive comeback win against FC Dallas. Chicago emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, marking the first time the franchise scored at least three goals after the 80th minute during a road match.
Although Chicago has also experienced inconsistency - with draws and losses against D.C. United and Columbus Crew, respectively - the Fire's blend of experience and youth offers promise. Berhalter acknowledged the mixed bag results, stating, "I think it's positive to see seven goals, but we’ve also conceded seven, which is concerning." He noted, “I think six of those seven goals were really avoidable mistakes we can improve upon."
Toronto suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss to FC Cincinnati and needs to break the streak of underwhelming results. Fraser pointed out the character of his team, saying, "There are really good, hard-working players who try to do exactly what’s asked of them. When they do, we've had some decent moments." Unfortunately for Fraser, significant injuries weigh heavily on his squad. Defender Richie Laryea is sidelined with what Fraser described as a "medium-term injury" after being forced off the field early against Orlando City. Laryea's condition may have ramifications for his participation in the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League semifinal against Mexico.
Fraser's team is also missing other defensive assets, as Henry Wingo is out, and the availability of Raoul Petretta and Sigurd Rosted remains questionable. Meanwhile, Berhalter's Chicago Fire squad has been similarly ravaged by injuries, with key players like Kellyn Acosta, Chase Gasper, and Carlos Terán unavailable for the match.
Adding to Toronto's struggles, star winger Lorenzo Insigne has been unable to break through. Despite being eligible for selection, Fraser confirmed the Italian international has not suited up yet this season, as his play style does not fit the current strategy of TFC. Toronto is hoping to rid itself of the costly contract of Insigne, who is tied to the club until June 2026 and earns $15.4 million, making him the second-highest paid player last season behind Lionel Messi.
While the match at BMO Field this Saturday is anticipated to be heated, the weather forecast indicates 13 degrees Celsius and the possibility of showers. Fraser acknowledged the pitch's condition, saying, “It’s not in great shape. It’s winter in Toronto. The ground crew deserves credit for making it playable, but the weather has made maintenance difficult.”
With Toronto FC facing Chicago Fire FC, the tension and stakes are high for both teams and coaches, each fighting to cement their legacies moving forward. The match not only carries ramifications for standings but plays out as symbolic of each coach's attempt to reclaim their narratives.
TFC holds the all-time edge against Chicago, with 14 wins to 12 losses and 13 draws, but has struggled against the Fire lately, going winless over the last five encounters. Chicago's gain would be Toronto's pain, as the latter aims to secure their first home victory over their rivals since May 2022. Whether new tactical strategies from either coach will produce the desired outcomes remains uncertain, but the energy from both sides will be palpable.
Kickoff is set for Saturday afternoon, and the atmosphere is sure to be electric as fans gather, hoping for their team to deliver not only skill and determination but also long-awaited victories.