NYCFC vs Chicago Fire FC: How to watch, time, and more as MLS resumes

There were not too many fans and those in the media who thought New York City FC would make it far in the Leagues Cup, let alone the quarterfinals.  It was not pretty, but the Pigeons found a way to make the final eight by winning just one game in regulation.  They came out on top after penalty kicks in two matches, but they were unable to do so against the Columbus Crew.  As a result, they were eliminated from the summer tournament.

Still, NYCFC had a decent Leagues Cup.  They did better than expected, so hopefully that will spark something incredible as they play their final nine matches in Major League Soccer.  The first game will be against Chicago Fire FC at home, so they must start this period with a win.  It is helpful the team is mostly healthy and that Maxi Moralez is playing some of his best football.

The last time the two sides met a little over a month ago, NYCFC was in the middle of their tough road trip.  They drew 0-0 in what was a lackluster offensive effort.  This time around, it is vital the Queens’ team finds the back of the net, and likely more than once.  On paper, this should occur since Chicago sits in 14th place in the Eastern Conference and has a goal differential of -12.

Since the last meeting, the Fire have lost three of their last four games, including their two Leagues Cup fixtures.  However, they beat FC Cincinnati, illuminating that they can still beat the better teams in MLS.  Therefore, NYCFC cannot in any manner take any part of the 90 minutes lightly.

How to watch, time, and more of the NYCFC battle with Chicago

Date 

Saturday, August 24  

Time 

7:30 PM ET, with expected kickoff at 7:40 PM ET

How to watch on TV and streaming

The MLS Season Pass via Apple TV

How to watch in person 

Fans can go to Queens to see NYCFC

How to listen

newyorkcityfc.com/radio or via the NYCFC app

How to follow

If NYCFC supporters cannot watch or listen to the game, they can follow along via MLS Soccer’s timeline and NYCFC’s X account.

Final Notes

After scoring the fastest goal in NYCFC history, Alonso Martínez must get the start against the Fire.  It does not matter whether it was 12, 13, or 14 seconds; it was still the fastest goal so Nick Cushing cannot put him on the bench.  While many think the goal was not 14 seconds, the club is stating it was, so from now on, Skyscraper Blues will also use 14.  Nevertheless, the forward has been the best striker this season, so at this rate, he should not be on the bench.