Bitesize Prediction: Chicago Fire vs New York Red Bulls – 15/09/24

Competition: MLS

Market: Both teams to score

Odds: 4/7 @ Pribet

In what could prove to be an enjoyable showdown in the early hours of Sunday, Chicago will welcome New York to Soldier Field this weekend.

Starting with the hosts, enduring what was a public Leagues Cup struggle last month as they lost both of their group stages appearances by an aggregate score of 5-2, Chicago have continued to show a host of glaring issues this season. Once again battling it out at the foot of the Eastern Conference standings and seeking a miracle in the race to book a play-off ticket, the Fire have collected just a sole point from any of their previous four MLS matchups on either side of the month break. Last seen putting in another downbeat display as they suffered a 2-1 loss at home against DC United, Frank Klopas’ camp have gained an unwanted reputation for their defensive struggles. Opening September with a 4-1 drumming at the hands of Inter Miami, Sunday’s hosts have shipped 13 goals in just their last five matchups across all competitions. Likewise, it should also be highlighted, Chicago have recorded just a pair of clean sheets from any of their previous 20 consecutive outings.

As for the visitors, while New York might still be sat firmly in the driving seat to punch another play-off ticket this season, the Red Bulls are at the heart of what has become a public crisis. With mounting pressure on Sandro Schwarz’s shoulders, Sunday’s guests are desperately seeking a much-needed boost this weekend. Failing to progress to the Leagues Cup knockout stage over the summer, the former Hertha Berlin boss has remarkably seen his squad claim just a single victory from any of their previous 10 appearances across all competitions – a rut that stems all the way back to June 23rd. Missing out on what was a potential opportunity last weekend as they had to settle for a 1-1 stalemate at home against Sporting KC, New York have also continued to show some glaring issues away from the Red Bull Arena. In fact, Schawrz’s side have failed to record a single victory on their travels since the middle of May.

Bet: Both teams to score at Chicago Fire vs New York Red Bulls 4/7 for Sunday’s MLS battle @ Pribet