New York City FC (8-14-11) vs. Chicago Fire FC (10-10-13)
New York City FC vs. Chicago Fire FC 10/21/23 – Saturday night’s MLS face-off brings together two teams with contrasting performances this season. New York City FC, standing at 8-14-11, hosts Chicago Fire FC, who currently hold a record of 10-10-13. This matchup is crucial for both sides, especially as the season progresses to its latter stages. For those searching for the best value MLS free picks, this game promises intrigue.
Delving into NYCFC’s offense, we find Gabriel Pereira taking the lead with 6 goals this season, closely followed by Santiago Rodríguez with 5. Their offensive prowess will undoubtedly challenge Chicago’s defense. While Pereira boasts a commendable shot on target ratio, Rodríguez’s contribution isn’t merely goal-oriented. His 7 assists this season emphasize his playmaking capabilities, which can be vital in breaking the Fire’s defensive line.
On the flip side, Chicago Fire FC presents a balanced attack, with Maren Haile-Selassie and Xherdan Shaqiri boasting 6 and 5 goals, respectively. The experience and flair of Shaqiri, combined with Kamara’s ability to challenge defenses, could prove problematic for NYCFC’s backline. The varied attacking options could force NYCFC’s defense to spread thin, allowing opportunities for the Fire.
New York City FC vs. Chicago Fire FC 10/21/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Citi Field |
| TV: | ATV |
| Stream: | TBD |
Luis Barraza GK vs. Chris Brady GK
Luis Barraza, the principal goalkeeper for New York City FC, has exhibited commendable proficiency in his role throughout the current season. With 24 starting appearances, he has successfully registered 63 saves, an indication of his adept reflexes and precise positioning. Although his record shows 30 goals conceded, the four clean sheets to his name are a testament to his ability to deliver under pressure. As NYCFC prepares to defend against Chicago Fire FC’s notable forwards, including the likes of Shaqiri and Kamara, Barraza’s role is undeniably pivotal. His leadership in coordinating the defensive line will be instrumental in containing Chicago’s attacking threats.
Conversely, Chris Brady of Chicago Fire FC has consistently displayed an assertive presence in the goal. In his 29 starts this season, Brady has secured 8 clean sheets and made a remarkable 95 saves, emphasizing both his reactive capabilities and his capacity to fortify the defensive unit ahead of him. As he faces the formidable offensive lineup of NYCFC, led by players such as Pereira and Rodríguez, Brady’s performance will be critically assessed. His contributions will be a key determinant in Chicago Fire FC’s pursuit of a favorable outcome from this encounter.
Soccer Odds/Point Spread: New York City FC -176, Total Odds: 3
Analyzing the betting odds, NYCFC is favored at -176. This shows confidence in their home advantage and their recent performances. The total odds at 3 suggest a game that may be high scoring, reflecting the offensive strengths of both teams. Bettors might find value in backing NYCFC given their home record, but the over/under is a trickier proposition.
New York City FC Betting Trends
NYCFC’s recent form has been inconsistent, going 1-2 in their last 5 games. Moreover, they have a 2-3 record against the spread in recent matchups. However, their 9-8 away record against the spread is commendable. The totals have leaned towards the under, with only 1 of the last 5 games going over.
Chicago Fire FC Betting Trends
Chicago Fire, in their last five matches, have an even 2-2 record. Against the spread, they’ve fared slightly better at 3-2. Their road game spread record mirrors NYCFC’s at 8-8. The totals for the Fire similarly lean towards the under recently, but their games at home tend to see more goals with 8 of the last 17 going over.
New York City FC vs. Chicago Fire FC 10/21/23 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ recent form and strengths, this match promises to be a close contest. While NYCFC holds the home advantage, Chicago Fire’s balanced attack may find gaps in the NYCFC defense.
The smart bet here would be to back NYCFC for the win, given their home record. For those looking to venture on over/under, the game leans slightly towards the over, considering the offensive talent on display. With exclusive premium matchup insights, we predict a high-scoring affair.
Free Pick and Prediction: New York City FC 3, Chicago Fire FC 1