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Chicago Fire vs NYCFC Picks and Predictions — September 13, 2025
The Eastern Conference playoff race is tightening, and Saturday’s clash at Soldier Field could go a long way toward shaping the postseason picture.
Chicago Fire (12-10-6, 42 points) hold the ninth and final East playoff spot, while New York City FC (13-9-5, 44 points) sit two points ahead in seventh with a match in hand.
Every Matchup. Every Day. Every Angle.
All covered. All yours.
Chicago comes off a 3-2 win over New England, sparked by Hugo Cuypers’ 16th goal of the season. NYCFC, meanwhile, fell 2-1 to D.C. United before the international break but had been unbeaten in five straight league games before that.
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Chicago Fire Can Win If…
- Hugo Cuypers keeps scoring. The Belgian striker has 16 goals and remains the centerpiece of Chicago’s attack.
- They ride their home form. The Fire have been tough at Soldier Field lately, winning four of their last five at home.
- They stay defensively sharp late. Chicago nearly squandered a 3-0 lead vs. New England — closing out matches will be critical.
Coach Gregg Berhalter has the Fire believing:
“This is the best time of year. When you’re playing in November, you’re doing something right.”
NYCFC Can Win If…
- Alonso Martinez delivers. With 14 goals, he’s been NYCFC’s most reliable finisher.
- They control midfield tempo. Hannes Wolf (9 goals) adds creativity, and NYC needs to dictate pace away from home.
- Matt Freese continues his breakout season. The USMNT hopeful has 7 clean sheets in 24 appearances.
Manager Pascal Jensen shrugged off the recent loss:
“I don’t think we’re bouncing back from a poor performance — just a bad result.”
Key MLS Betting Trends
| Category | Chicago Fire | NYCFC |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 12-10-6 (9th East) | 13-9-5 (7th East) |
| Form (Last 5) | 3-1-1 | 3-1-1 |
| Goals Scored | Cuypers – 16 | Martinez – 14, Wolf – 9 |
| Last Meeting | NYCFC 2-1 (Aug. 2024) | NYCFC leads season series 1-0 |
The Leans
Main Pick: Draw (+240)
Projected Score: Chicago 1, NYCFC 1
- Moneyline Angle: This is a playoff six-pointer — both sides may play cautiously, making a draw attractive.
- Total Goals Angle: Under 2.5 (+105) — Chicago has allowed just 6 goals in their last 5, and NYCFC relies on grinding results.
Best Bet Box
Best Bet: Draw (+240)
Confidence: ★★★☆☆
Playoff pressure peaks in the Windy City. 👉 Get today’s expert MLS picks
