Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire: MLS Playoffs Round 1, Game 1 Preview
The Philadelphia Union will face the Chicago Fire in the first match of the 2025 MLS Playoffs, Round 1. The game is set for Sunday, October 26, at 5:30 PM EST at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania. This matchup is viewed as crucial for both teams as they aim for postseason success.
Match Overview
- Teams: Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire
- Date: October 26, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM EST
- Venue: Subaru Park, Chester, PA
- Broadcast: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, FS1, Fox Deportes; Radio on 97.5 FM
Team Analysis
Philadelphia Union
Finishing the regular season with a record of 20 wins, 8 losses, and 6 draws, the Philadelphia Union secured the Supporters’ Shield and claimed the top seed in the Eastern Conference with 66 points. Under head coach Bradley Carnell, the team demonstrated significant improvement, bouncing back from a playoff absence in 2017.
The Union’s strength lies in their formidable defense, allowing the fewest goals in the league this season. They only conceded 35 goals, primarily supported by center backs Jakob Glesnes and Olwethu Makhanya. Offensively, they scored 68 goals, with key contributions from Israel’s Tai Baribo and late-season addition Milan Iloski.
Chicago Fire
The Chicago Fire, led by first-year coach Gregg Berhalter, finished eighth in the Eastern Conference with a 15-11-8 record and 53 points. This marks their return to playoff action after a long absence since 2017. Their recent form has been impressive, boasting an unbeaten streak across their last five matches, including a victory over Orlando City in the Wild Card game.
Hugo Cuypers and Philip Zinckernagel have been pivotal for Chicago’s attack. Despite their offensive capabilities, the Fire’s defense has been a concern, conceding 60 goals during the regular season, the highest among playoff teams. Their recent track record against the Union, with only one win in their last seven clashes, poses a challenge.
Key Players to Watch
- Philadelphia Union: Tai Baribo (striker), Milan Iloski (attacking midfielder)
- Chicago Fire: Hugo Cuypers (striker), Philip Zinckernagel (midfielder)
Injury Report
Philadelphia Union
- OUT: Quinn Sullivan (knee)
- OUT: Jeremy Rafanello (hamstring)
Chicago Fire
- OUT: Andre Franco (knee)
- OUT: Leonardo Barroso (lower body)
- OUT: Viktor Radojevic (lower body)
- OUT: Chris Mueller (other)
Prediction
The Union have excelled against the Fire, winning six of their last seven encounters. Given their formidable home advantage and recent performance, the prediction leans towards a 3-1 victory for the Philadelphia Union as they aim to advance in the playoffs.
