Chicago Fire Faces Atlanta United for Crucial MLS Clash at Soldier Field

CHICAGO, Ill. — Two struggling teams, the Chicago Fire and Atlanta United, will meet Saturday at 7:30 p.m. local time at Soldier Field, seeking their first victory since March. Both teams earned just one point last week, with the Fire drawing 0-0 against Orlando City, leaving them 11th in the Eastern Conference, while Atlanta sits 13th after a 1-1 draw with Nashville SC.

Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter aims to secure a much-needed win at home, where the team has only claimed three points in five games this season. Despite having one of the best defensive records in their last five matchups against Atlanta, the Fire have not won against the Five Stripes at Soldier Field since 2021.

Atlanta United has also been struggling, sitting at the bottom of the road standings without a victory in their four away matches this year, scoring just two goals. Their performance has been disappointing, particularly in defense, where they have conceded the third-most goals in the Eastern Conference.

In terms of injuries, Chicago will be without Chris Brady, who is serving a suspension following a red card in their last match, while key players such as Jonathan Bamba are also dealing with injuries. The Fire will look to players like Jeff Gal and a promising debut from 16-year-old goalkeeper from their academy.

Atlanta United will miss some key players as well, including important attackers who have not been impactful lately. In the wake of roster changes and seeking offensive cohesion, coach Ronny Deila will hope to see improvement from Alexsey Miranchuk, who is expected to be the focal point of their attack.

The match will be a testing ground for both teams, with Chicago looking to end its six-game winless run while Atlanta aims to break its lengthy streak of challenges. The players and fans alike hope a sunny forecast will help lift spirits at Soldier Field.