Chicago Fire FC vs. Philadelphia Union Prediction, Match Preview, and Betting Tips, 1 November 2025

Looking ahead to the clash between Chicago Fire FC and Philadelphia Union on 1 November 2025, scheduled to kick off at 21:30 at SeatGeek Stadium, we find ourselves on the cusp of an intriguing Major League Soccer 1/8 round encounter. This match holds significance as both teams vie for advancement in the playoffs.

Chicago Fire FC, the bookmakers’ favorite with odds of 2.09 to win, have exhibited a free-scoring form, averaging 3.20 goals in their last five matches. However, their defense has shown vulnerabilities, missing key players due to injuries and suspensions. Gregg Berhalter’s side also has the tournament’s top scorer, Hugo Cuypers, boasting 19 goals this season.

Philadelphia Union, led by Bradley Carnell, have maintained impressive defensive solidity recently, securing three clean sheets in their last five games. They have not lost to Chicago in 2025, and their tactical discipline and effective pressing have consistently troubled the Fire.

Given these dynamics, a smart bet might be Philadelphia Union Double Chance (Win or Draw), considering their unbeaten record against Chicago Fire FC this season. This promises to be a thrilling contest, contributing a vital chapter to the season’s narrative.

Chicago Fire FC vs Philadelphia Union Prediction & Betting tip

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  Chicago Fire FC vs Philadelphia Union Prediction

  Betting tip
  Philadelphia Union Double Chance (Win or Draw) – Odds: 1.55

The recommended betting tip for this match is "Philadelphia Union Double Chance (Win or Draw)". This prediction is based on several key factors:

• Philadelphia Union have remained unbeaten against Chicago Fire FC throughout the 2025 season, showcasing their dominance in prior encounters, including a 4-0 win and a crucial penalty shoot-out victory in the MLS Cup playoffs.
• Chicago Fire FC have conceded 1.7 goals on average this season and are missing key players due to injuries and suspensions, weakening their defensive line significantly.
• Philadelphia Union’s effective pressing and tactical discipline have consistently troubled Chicago Fire FC, making them a solid bet to avoid defeat.

These insights make the Philadelphia Union Double Chance a well-supported betting tip for this matchup.

Chicago Fire FC vs Philadelphia Union Odds

This upcoming clash between Chicago Fire FC and Philadelphia Union presents intriguing betting odds for punters. The bookmakers have placed Chicago Fire FC as the slight favorites with odds of 2.09 to secure a win at home. A draw is pegged at 3.66, while a win for Philadelphia Union is set at 3.07.

Chicago Fire FC vs Philadelphia Union Betting Odds

Bet Odds
Chicago Fire FC 2.09
Draw 3.66
Philadelphia Union 3.07

These odds highlight the competitive nature of the matchup. Chicago Fire’s offensive prowess, coupled with their recent goal-scoring form, makes them a tempting pick at home, but their defensive frailties cannot be ignored. Philadelphia Union’s unbeaten run against Chicago this season and their tactical discipline suggest that there is value in betting on the Union to either win or draw. This could be an exciting contest for bettors looking to take advantage of the close odds and the form dynamics of both teams.

Chicago Fire FC Team Analysis

Chicago Fire FC Recent Performance

• Philadelphia Union – Chicago Fire FC 2 – 2 (Penalty shoot-out: 4 – 2), 2025-10-26, Major League Soccer Playoff
• Chicago Fire FC – Orlando City 3 – 1, 2025-10-23, Major League Soccer Playoff
• New England Revolution – Chicago Fire FC 2 – 2, 2025-10-18, Major League Soccer
• Chicago Fire FC – Toronto FC 2 – 2, 2025-10-05, Major League Soccer
• Inter Miami CF – Chicago Fire FC 3 – 5, 2025-09-30, Major League Soccer

Chicago Fire FC’s recent form has been mixed, highlighted by a sole victory over Orlando City. Their attacking flair is evident with an impressive average of 3.20 goals scored per match over these five games. Despite their offensive strength, defensive frailties have been apparent, with the team failing to keep a clean sheet.

With a number of key players injured, including Chris Mueller and Viktor Radojevic, and the suspension of Sergio Oregel, Chicago’s defense will need to step up to contain Philadelphia’s pressing attack. Head coach Gregg Berhalter will rely heavily on his top scorer, Hugo Cuypers, who has been in superb form this season.

Chicago Fire FC Key Players

For Chicago Fire FC, Hugo Cuypers stands out as the primary attacking threat. He is the top scorer for the team this season with 19 goals and will be crucial in breaking down Philadelphia Union’s defense. Jonathan Bamba, also expected to start, provides creative flair on the flanks, capable of delivering dangerous balls into the box and scoring himself.

Midfielders Djé D’Avilla and Rominigue Kouame will be essential in controlling the game’s tempo and supporting both defense and attack. On the defensive end, Jack Elliott and Joel Waterman need to step up given the absence of key players like Chris Mueller and Sergio Oregel.

Expected lineup for Chicago Fire FC:

• Goalkeeper: Chris Brady
• Defenders: Joel Waterman, Jack Elliott, Samuel Rogers
• Midfielders: Jonathan Dean, Djé D’Avilla, Rominigue Kouame, Andrew Gutman
• Forwards: Philip Zinckernagel, Hugo Cuypers, Jonathan Bamba

The individual battle between Cuypers and Philadelphia Union’s defenders like Jakob Glesnes will be particularly intriguing and could decide the outcome of the match.

Chicago Fire FC Suspensions & Injuries

Chicago Fire FC are contending with multiple key absences ahead of their clash against Philadelphia Union. Chris Mueller is out indefinitely due to heart problems, posing a significant blow to the squad. Additionally, Viktor Radojevic and Leonardo Barroso are sidelined with muscle injuries, with potential returns expected in early November 2025.

André Franco’s cruciate ligament injury will keep him out until mid-June 2026, further depleting the squad. Adding to their woes, Sergio Oregel is suspended due to a red card, which leaves them without a critical midfield presence. These absences, particularly in the defense, might exacerbate their issues at the back and increase their vulnerability against Philadelphia’s pressing game.

This weakened defensive setup will be a challenge for head coach Gregg Berhalter as he tries to manage the squad’s performance amidst these disruptions.

Chicago Fire FC Tactics and Formation

Chicago Fire FC will likely opt for a 3-4-3 formation under the guidance of head coach Gregg Berhalter. This setup focuses on a robust attacking strategy, leveraging their goal-scoring prowess, evidenced by an average of 3.20 goals in their last five matches.

Chicago Fire FC Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-3
• Key Forward: Hugo Cuypers (19 goals this season)
• Midfield Quad: Jonathan Dean, Djé D’Avilla, Rominigue Kouame, Andrew Gutman
• Defensive Setup: Joel Waterman, Jack Elliott, Samuel Rogers
• Offensive Strength: The team has consistently scored high, with notable performance spikes during the latter stages of the match, particularly around the 61-75-minute mark.

Without key defensive players like Chris Mueller and Sergio Oregel, Chicago may expose themselves to counter-attacks from Philadelphia Union. Nevertheless, their aggressive forward play, led by Cuypers and supported by creative players like Jonathan Bamba, could keep them in the contest.

Philadelphia Union Team Analysis

Philadelphia Union Recent Performance

• Philadelphia Union – Chicago Fire FC 2 – 2 (Penalty shoot-out: 4 – 2), 2025-10-26, Major League Soccer Playoff
• Charlotte FC – Philadelphia Union 2 – 0, 2025-10-18, Major League Soccer
• Philadelphia Union – New York City FC 1 – 0, 2025-10-04, Major League Soccer
• DC United – Philadelphia Union 0 – 6, 2025-09-27, Major League Soccer
• Philadelphia Union – New England Revolution 1 – 0, 2025-09-20, Major League Soccer

Philadelphia Union have been in impressive form recently, recording three wins and suffering just one loss in their last five matches. They’ve maintained a strong defensive record, keeping clean sheets in three out of these encounters. Their average goals scored per game stands at 2.80, demonstrating a balanced strength both offensively and defensively.

Key victories against DC United (6-0) and New York City FC (1-0) highlight their capability to dominate matches. Philadelphia’s tactical discipline under Bradley Carnell has been pivotal in their recent successes, rendering them a formidable opponent for Chicago Fire FC.

Philadelphia Union Key Players

For Philadelphia Union, key players like Milan Iloski and Tai Baribo will be crucial in breaking down Chicago Fire FC’s defense. Milan Iloski, who has been Philadelphia’s leading scorer, will look to exploit Chicago’s weakened backline, while Tai Baribo’s pace and positioning could also cause significant issues.

Philadelphia Union’s midfield, comprising Jovan Lukic and Danley Jean Jacques, will play a vital role in maintaining their tactical discipline and transitioning quickly from defense to attack. Defensively, Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner will be essential in maintaining the clean sheet record that has been pivotal in their recent successes.

Expected lineup for Philadelphia Union:

• Goalkeeper: Andre Blake
• Defenders: Nathan Harriel, Jakob Glesnes, Olwethu Makhanya, Kai Wagner
• Midfielders: Indiana Vassilev, Jovan Lukic, Danley Jean Jacques, Milan Iloski
• Forwards: Tai Baribo, Bruno Damiani

The match-up between Hugo Cuypers and Philadelphia’s solid defense, particularly Glesnes, will be a fascinating battle to watch.

Philadelphia Union Suspensions & Injuries

Philadelphia Union have relatively few concerns on the injury front as they head into this crucial encounter. The only significant injury is to Quinn Sullivan, who is sidelined with a knee injury and expected to return by mid-November 2025. While Sullivan’s absence is a setback, the team has enough depth to cover his position effectively.

This limited injury list ensures that head coach Bradley Carnell has most of his preferred starters available for selection. The Union’s strong recent form and tactical discipline are likely to remain intact, making them a tough opponent for Chicago Fire FC. The absence of key disruptions can help maintain their defensive solidity and pressing game, both pivotal in their previous successes against Chicago.

Philadelphia Union Tactics and Formation

Philadelphia Union under Bradley Carnell have adopted a consistent and effective 4-4-2 formation. This setup has provided them with a balanced approach, allowing them to be defensively robust while also maintaining an efficient attack.

Philadelphia Union Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-4-2
• Key Forwards: Tai Baribo and Bruno Damiani
• Midfield Duo: Jovan Lukic and Danley Jean Jacques, both pivotal in dictating play and breaking up opposition attacks.
• Defensive Setup: Nathan Harriel, Jakob Glesnes, Olwethu Makhanya, and Kai Wagner have provided stability, contributing to their impressive clean sheet record.
• Notable Strategy: Effective pressing, particularly in the middle third, which disrupts the opposition’s buildup play. They’re also known for scoring crucial goals in the final 15 minutes, making their late-game threat significant.

This tactical approach has troubled Chicago Fire FC all season, particularly due to their disciplined pressing and ability to exploit defensive lapses, areas where Chicago often struggles.

Chicago Fire FC vs Philadelphia Union Head-to-Head Statistics

Analyzing the recent head-to-head stats between Chicago Fire FC and Philadelphia Union reveals a clear pattern favoring the latter. The Union have maintained an unbeaten record against Chicago throughout the 2025 season, reflecting their dominance.

• 2025-10-26: Philadelphia Union 2-2 Chicago Fire FC (Philadelphia won on penalties 4-2), Major League Soccer Playoff
• 2025-08-23: Philadelphia Union 4-0 Chicago Fire FC, Major League Soccer
• 2025-06-26: Chicago Fire FC 0-1 Philadelphia Union, Major League Soccer
• 2024-07-04: Chicago Fire FC 4-3 Philadelphia Union, Major League Soccer
• 2024-02-25: Philadelphia Union 2-2 Chicago Fire FC, Major League Soccer

These results highlight Philadelphia’s superior tactical approach and defensive solidity. Chicago’s lone win was in mid-2024, but since then, the Union have won three out of four encounters, with one draw ending in their favor via penalties. The Union’s defensive discipline and effective pressing have consistently troubled Chicago, making them a formidable opponent.

Odds accurate as of 30 October 2025 at 21:31 and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.