Chicago Fire — Orlando City : Match Preview and Prediction for October 23,2025

Chicago’s Playoff Debut and Inexperience

Yes, Chicago is in the playoffs for the first time since 2017. However, let’s temper our enthusiasm. For most players in this locker room, this will be their first experience playing knockout football in , and that comes with immense pressure that won’t be easy to handle. Young 21-year-old goalkeeper Chris Brady, for example, will make his postseason debut.

Offensive Power, Defensive Woes

The team, under the guidance of Gregg Berhalter, truly scores a lot. The numbers from Philip Zinckernagel (15+15) and Hugo Cuypers (17 goals) are impressive, and a club record of 68 goals for the season speaks volumes. But behind this impressive offensive facade lies a genuine defensive catastrophe.

Home Field Disadvantage?

Chicago conceded 60 goals – the worst record among all playoff teams. In 19 out of 34 matches this season, they conceded two or more goals, including their last three regular-season games. Home-field advantage? It doesn’t seem to work for them either. The Fire’s home record (6 wins, 5 draws, 6 losses) is the weakest among all Eastern Conference playoff participants.

Orlando’s Playoff Pedigree

Now let’s look at their opponent. Orlando, in terms of experience, is the antithesis of Chicago. For them, this is their sixth consecutive playoff appearance, the league’s longest active streak. Last year, these players reached the conference final, and they are well-versed in knockout stage football.

Lions’ Potent Attack

The ‘Lions” attack is also in excellent form. They scored 63 goals this season, setting a club record. Argentinian Martín Ojeda is having a historic season (16 goals and 15 assists), and he is far from the only threat in Óscar Pareja’s squad.

Road Warrior Mentality

A key factor is their away performance. Orlando doesn’t falter on the road, boasting a solid record of 6-4-7 and ranking fifth in the conference for points earned away from home. For them, a match in Chicago won’t be a particular challenge, especially against a team with such issues playing on their home turf.