Chicago Fire vs Philadelphia Union Prediction & Betting Tips (1 November)

Philadelphia Union enter the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs riding a wave of dominance. Under head coach Bradley Carnell, the team clinched the Supporters’ Shield and finished atop the Eastern Conference, boasting the second-highest regular season point total in league history. Carnell, once doubted at the season’s start, now finds himself nominated for the Sigi Schmid MLS Coach of the Year award. The Union’s home fortress, Subaru Park, has been nearly impenetrable—just one loss in 17 league matches. Their tactical discipline and collective effort have made them a formidable postseason contender, with players like Tai Baribo and Jack Elliott stepping up in clutch moments.

Chicago Fire, meanwhile, have undergone a dramatic transformation under new head coach Gregg Berhalter. After years of playoff drought, the Fire surged into the postseason with a convincing 3-1 win over Orlando City SC in the Wild Card round. Berhalter’s arrival has reinvigorated the squad, blending youth and experience with players like Milan Iloski and Jonathan Bamba making decisive contributions. Despite finishing eighth in the East, Chicago’s recent form suggests they’re not just happy to be here—they’re here to compete. Their resilience was on full display in Game 1 against Philadelphia, where they clawed back from a two-goal deficit to force penalties.

The first match of the best-of-three series was a thriller. Philadelphia took an early lead through Indiana Vassilev and Milan Iloski, but Chicago responded with late goals from Bamba and Elliott, pushing the game into a dramatic shootout. Ultimately, the Union prevailed 4-2 on penalties, thanks to Jesús Bueno’s decisive strike. The match also saw a red card for Chicago’s Sergio Oregel, adding tension to an already heated rivalry. With the second leg set for November 1 at SeatGeek Stadium, both teams will be recalibrating their strategies. Philadelphia will aim to close out the series, while Chicago fights to extend their playoff run.

Looking ahead, the tactical chess match between Carnell and Berhalter promises another gripping encounter. Philadelphia’s home advantage may have tipped the scales in Game 1, but Chicago’s fighting spirit and attacking depth shouldn’t be underestimated. Expect a tightly contested match with moments of brilliance from both sides. Given the current form and psychological edge, Philadelphia Union are likely to edge out a narrow win in the second leg. Our prediction: a 2-1 victory for the Union, sealing their spot in the Eastern Conference semifinals and keeping their MLS Cup dream alive.