When Toronto FC hosts the Chicago Fire at BMO Field on Saturday, the two teams will look to end their long winless streaks in Major League Soccer with kickoff at 2 am.
After more than a third of the 2022 MLS season has passed, Toronto FC is near the bottom of the table.
The team has taken a few baby steps to restore this once-great franchise to elite status—but now, it’s hitting a downward spiral. Bob Bradley’s side has had three points right there for the taking for weeks—and come up short.
Despite all these setbacks that this young team has incurred, they have reacted well to adversity throughout the year, with nine of their 12 points coming from losing positions. This includes last Saturday when they came back from two goals down to draw DC United 2-2 and snap a five-match losing streak in MLS play.
Although the score was respectable, Ezra Hendrickson cannot be pleased with the way his side has given away points in recent matches. Last weekend’s 1-0 loss to New York City FC was their fourth straight road defeat. It is believed that those new additions will allow this group to play with an aggressive approach in the weeks to come.
Toronto vs Chicago Fire Head to Head
Both sides have 30 games against each other with hosts taking 12 wins while opponents with 8 wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Wanderers 1-2 Toronto
- DC United 2-2 Toronto
- Toronto 0-1 Orlando City
- Vancouver 1-0 Toronto
Away
- New York FC 1-0 Chicago Fire
- Red Bulls 3-3 Chicago Fire
- Chicago Fire 1-2 FC Cincinnati
- Atlanta United 4-1 Chicago Fire
Toronto Team News
Last weekend, midfielder Jonathan Osorio returned to the Toronto lineup, replacing Ralph Priso in the second half. He scored the equalizer a minute before injury time, earning his side a draw. Meanwhile, forward Ayo Akinola scored his fifth career goal against D.C. United and leading goalscorer Jesus Jimenez had his second assist of the season.
Chicago Fire Team News
Chicago will likely be without a few players, including goalkeeper Spencer Richey (head) and midfielder Javier Casas (pelvis). Midfielder Rafael Czichos is questionable with a right lower leg issue.
Prediction and Odds
Despite their struggles, Toronto has shown more fight than Chicago over their slump, while they seem to have more chemistry than the Fire, which we believe will be enough to earn them their first victory since April.
- Toronto Win
- Goals Over 2.5
- Both Teams to Score
