NYCFC vs Chicago Fire FC preview: Decision Day 2023

New York City FC and Major League Soccer have been waiting about two weeks for Decision Day 2023.  The international break pushed off the critical weekend.  Some teams will have their playoff places decided, while others will find out where they will finish in the conference tables. 

For NYCFC, the club is still alive in the playoff hunt thanks to Wednesday’s draw between Charlotte FC and Inter Miami CF.  The Pigeons will welcome Chicago Fire FC for this year’s Decision Day as they try to make the postseason.  In order to do so, the team has to win, Miami must win or draw, and the New York Red Bulls need to lose. 

Regardless of what happens around them, NYCFC knows that the only option is to earn three points.  The players will want to give the supporters a show in the last home game of the season. 

The last day of the regular season is here.  Let’s take a look at the preview between NYCFC and Chicago Fire FC.

When is the match between New York City FC and Chicago Fire FC?

The match will take place on Saturday, October 21 at 6:00 PM.

Where is the NYCFC game?

The game will take place in Queens, NY at Citi Field.

Where can fans watch the NYCFC game?

Fans can catch NYCFC on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.

What can New York City FC expect from Chicago Fire FC?

New York City FC can expect a Chicago Fire side desperate to win.  Like the Pigeons, they need to win to have a shot at making the playoffs.  As a result, it would not be shocking if the match turned into a heated battle. 

The two biggest threats on the Fire are Xherdan Shaqiri and Brian Gutiérrez.  Both have five and two goals, respectively.  Gutiérrez has 11 assists though, making him a huge threat as a creator.  The Pigeons should focus on trying to limit him in the attack.  In addition, Shaqiri has five assists. 

Which NYCFC player should supporters watch?

NYCFC supporters should watch Thiago Martins.  The center-back became the full-time captain after Maxime Chanot departed the club this summer.  Fans should watch how the Brazilian rises to the occasion of leading the Pigeons on Decision Day 2023. 

Plus, while he has improved this year, many feel he should not be a Designated Player or make the amount of money he is making.  Martins must play one of his best games of the season in front of the home crowd.  If he wants to be on the good side of the supporters, then he has to step up more.  Mistakes are not an option for him. 

As a bonus, supporters should also watch Andres Jasson.  The winger has played well over the last few months.  He is proving his worth and has scored three times in MLS this season.

What is the prediction for New York City FC?

While New York City FC failed to accomplish their goals on the road, the team has been a little stronger at home.  Their record against Chicago can give fans hope that they can finish the regular season with a bang.

Since this is Decision Day, it is better to be positive about the result.  Hence, the prediction is that NYCFC will end the night with a 3-0 win.  Either Talles Magno or Mounsef Bakrar will have an incredible game, or possibly both.

This season has not been the greatest, but somehow, the team remains in contention for the playoffs.  While it is hard to see New York City FC make it, at least a win is a feasible goal.