Chicago Fire — Columbus Crew : Match Preview and Prediction for September 28,2025

Recent Performance and Tactical Shifts

Chicago approaches this match following a notable 3-0 away victory against Minnesota. However, it’s crucial not to overstate the significance of this particular result. In that game, head coach Gregg Berhalter employed a three-centre-back formation for the first time this season, a tactical switch that clearly caught their opponents off guard. The coach himself clarified that this doesn’t signal a permanent shift to a new system but rather an enhancement of the team’s tactical versatility.

Inconsistent Form and Key Weaknesses

A broader perspective reveals a more erratic picture. Prior to their emphatic win over Minnesota, the team suffered a 1-3 home defeat to New York City. This pattern of alternating wins and losses suggests a lack of a consistent playing style that could deliver sustained results over a longer period. This vulnerability becomes particularly evident in matches against robust and well-organized sides, a category that Columbus undoubtedly falls into.

Defensive Vulnerabilities

Chicago’s defensive unit has been a cause for significant concern throughout the current season. Conceding 53 goals in just 30 games is an alarmingly high figure for any club aspiring to contend for top positions. Such defensive fragility severely limits their ability to play confidently, even on home turf, particularly when facing an opponent that has historically proven to be a formidable challenge for the ‘Fire’.

Challenges and Key Absences

Indeed, Columbus approaches this fixture in less than ideal condition. The team has been hit by a wave of injuries, sidelining crucial attacking players. Notably, their top scorer Diego Rossi and the in-form forward Wissam Abou Ali will be unavailable. These are significant absences that cannot be overlooked when assessing the match.

Resilience and Managerial Acumen

Despite these setbacks, even Chicago’s coach Gregg Berhalter acknowledges the strength of their opponents. He explicitly stated, “Even with a couple of injuries, they can still play well.” Berhalter emphasized that Columbus has maintained its status as a top-tier team over the past three years, a testament to their coaching staff’s expertise and the overall quality of their squad. This is a club characterized by a well-established system that doesn’t falter simply due to the absence of one or two players.

Impressive Away Form and Consistency

Statistics further underscore the team’s high caliber. Columbus has remained undefeated in 13 of their last 17 matches. Their away performances are particularly impressive, having avoided defeat in 15 of their previous 20 road fixtures. This remarkable record highlights their tactical discipline and their consistent ability to secure positive results away from home, which will be a pivotal factor at Soldier Field.