Major League Soccer returns this weekend with a full slate of fixtures as we dive into yet another set of high profile clashes. We’re still in the early stages of the campaign but we’re starting to get a feel for how a few teams are approaching the season, even though there’s still a long way to go. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be a fun game between New York Red Bulls and Chicago Fire.
NY Red Bulls Form GuideFor so long now, New York Red Bulls have been one of the most notable franchises in the MLS - but they’ve never really been able to take that next step. They struggle more than most to live up to the hype surrounding them, but they’ll hope to turn the tide in the weeks and months that lie ahead. In terms of belief, we think their fans have it in abundance, which is a good start.
The Red Bulls’ only loss of the season so far was a 3-0 defeat to Columbus. Alongside that, they also picked up a point in a 1-1 draw with Orlando, to run alongside four big wins over Houston, Dallas, Miami and, most recently, Cincinnati.
Chicago Form GuideFor years now, the city of Chicago has done a great job of producing winners - but in the MLS, it’s been a long time since the Fire have seen any kind of sustained success. Last season, they finish in 13th place in the Eastern Conference. While they did pick up 10 wins along the way, they need a bit more of an edge to them if they’re going to start thinking about the playoffs.
Following defeats to Cincinnati and Columbus, Chicago hit back with a 4-3 win over Montreal. They went on to draw 1-1 with New England before being dominated in a 3-0 loss to Atlanta. In their most recent outing, they went toe to toe with Houston, coming away with a 2-1 win.
Match PredictionChicago are an interesting side to watch in the sense that they have a lot of potential, and that’s clear for most people to say. At the same time, they’re coming up against a side who are really getting everything to click into place. In our view, the end result here will be a NY Red Bulls win.
