New York Red Bulls Seek Redemption Against Chicago Fire in MLS Clash

HARRISON, N.J. — The New York Red Bulls host the Chicago Fire on Saturday at Red Bull Arena, looking to recover from a heartbreaking defeat last week. After a late 2-1 loss at the New England Revolution, New York aims to bounce back in matchday seven of the MLS 2025 season.

The Red Bulls, currently ranked 18th in the league with eight points, suffered their second loss of the season against New England. A draw seemed imminent until Carles Gil’s penalty kick in stoppage time dealt a crushing blow just as the players were preparing to wrap up the match. On the season, New York has scored seven goals and conceded six, leaving them with a minimal positive goal difference and a tenuous hold on the last wild card position in the Eastern Conference.

The team found some momentum earlier this season, managing victories against Toronto FC and Nashville SC. Coach Sandro Schwarz remains optimistic despite their current struggles. “We were angry about the game last Saturday,” Schwarz told reporters. “Now we have to look to Saturday against Chicago. We need to show this anger on the field. We need to be aggressive and very compact.”

Chicago Fire, on the other hand, enters the game with a stronger record, having accumulated 11 points from three wins, two draws, and one loss. Their last matchup against the Red Bulls ended in a 2-1 victory for Chicago, a result that positions them to potentially defeat New York consecutively for the first time since 2021.

Fire coach Gregg Berhalter acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains confident in his squad. “It was about embracing that type of game, and we did a poor job of that against Montreal,” Berhalter stated after their previous match concluded in a 1-1 draw. “But there’s something to be said of playing poorly and still taking a point. Now we face a much tougher opponent in the Red Bulls.”

Key players to watch include Emil Forsberg, who leads the Red Bulls with three goals, and Philip Zinckernagel for the Fire, contributing significantly to their scoring efforts. Both teams are facing injuries with several players sidelined, impacting their tactical setups for the match.

The Red Bulls have maintained a strong defensive record at home and have not lost at Red Bull Arena this season. A continued unbeaten streak at home could be crucial as they try to gain ground in the playoff race. With Chicago’s attacking prowess and New York’s home-field advantage, Saturday promises to be an intriguing showdown.