en-us SportSpyder - The Latest Chicago Fire Podcasts https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/podcasts <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire lost to the New England Revolution ... again. The Men in Red were unable to break down the Revolutions defense despite controlling possession, shooting, and attacking statistical categories. Nick looks at the issues with the Fire's offense including the integration of summer signings, utilization of substitutes, and improper analysis of superior stats. Remember, especially during the MLS Cup Playoffs, the only stat that matters at the end of the game is the score.</p> <p>Nick also takes a look at the Chicago Fire's potential playoff opponents and gives his preferences for certain matchups. The Fire have a long way to go to clinch a home playoff match at Soldier Field or SeatGeek Stadium, and their potential matchups aren't favorable. It's likely the Fire will face Philadelphia, New England, or Charlotte in the first round, best of three series. All these teams have given the Fire fits during the regular season, and it's up to Gregg Berhalter and entire coaching staff to come up with a game plan to advance. The second round will see the Fire face Nashville or Miami, the two most difficult teams to play against in Major League Soccer.</p> <p>There are only four matches left before the MLS post-season. Will the Fire go in on a hot streak or a slump? Will their new signings be fully integrated and comfortable with their teammates? Only time will tell, but we know for sure, there's still a lot of work left to do.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p> <p>Support our Show Partners:</p> <p>https://www.dubby.gg/discount/GLASSHOUSE?ref=yesixvek</p> <p>https://saltathletic.com/?ref=glasshousesoccer</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:33:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5963280 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5963280 <p>Hey, soccer fans! Bad losses like the Chicago Fire's latest match vs. the Philadelphia Union force fans and teams to ask difficult questions. In this episode, Nick asks:</p> <ul> <li>Why the lineup changes?</li> <li>What is Gregg Berhalter doing with this subsitutions?</li> <li>Why is Robert Lewandowski playing so deep? Is it to open space for Maren Haile-Selassie?</li> <li>Is Andrew Gutman in the doghouse, hurt, or just getting rest?</li> <li>How can the Men in Red beat a team like the Union that press so high with so many defenders?</li> </ul> Nick tries to find answers to the questions, but hopefully the club itself finds them before the MLS Cup Playoffs. To close the show, we also talk a little MLS trivia. Cavan Sulllivan sets the goal contribution records for teenagers, St. Louis City tie the longest unbeaten streak, and the Chicago Fire's 11 game win-streak in 1998 still isn't the longest win streak in league history! Tune in to find out more. <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p> <p>Support our Show Partners:</p> <p>https://www.dubby.gg/discount/GLASSHOUSE?ref=yesixvek</p> <p>https://saltathletic.com/?ref=glasshousesoccer</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Thu, 15 Oct 2026 15:59:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5950629 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5950629 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire have won three straight and have done it in a variety of ways. Against Alan Saint-Maximin and Charlotte FC, they grind out a tough win with players away on international duty. Against Thomas Müller and the Vancouver Whitecaps, they put in a complete team performance with a resurgent Jonathan Bamba leading the way. Against Matt Freese and NYCFC, they rally back from going a man down to take and hold the lead. These different ways to win will prove invaluable to a team during elimination games in the MLS Cup Playoffs.</p> <p>Nick also looks at how Maren Haile-Selassie has been able to open up the Men in Red's offense alongside Robert Lewandowski. Nick also questions whether the Fire have a "Good Dje, Bad Dje" situation with defensive midfielder Dje D'Avilla, who picked up a red card against New York City FC after a couple clumsy and lazy challenges. He seems to play best during comfortable moments in offense and defense, but gets lost during the transition moments of the match. Will the Fire figure it out before the playoffs, when any mistake could cost a team its season?</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p> <p>Support our Show Partners:</p> <p>https://www.dubby.gg/discount/GLASSHOUSE?ref=yesixvek</p> <p>https://saltathletic.com/?ref=glasshousesoccer</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 13 Oct 2026 15:08:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5943340 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5943340 Tue, 13 Oct 2026 22:13:56 GMT ALEX CAMPBELL https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5944063 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5944063 <p>Hey, soccer fans! Tomorrow, luxury seats go on sale for the Chicago Fire's new stadium. Over the next couple years, different seating options will be rolled out, but season ticket members get an exclusive pre-sale opportunity to join the elite and take-in a match with the best-of-the-best. Sounds fancy, right? Nick explores whether this kind of marketing actually alienates fans, portrays the organization as an exclusive club for the rich, and prices out fans from having special game-day experiences. He also provides his takes on the recent bumps in ticket demand and interest in the Men in Red - and why the club and Major League Soccer as a league need to change their strategy of marketing special events (signing of Messi, Lewy; building a new stadium; ownership changes; Designated Players) to sustainable fan-bases, income, and popularity.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p> <p>Support our Show Partners:</p> <p>https://www.dubby.gg/discount/GLASSHOUSE?ref=yesixvek</p> <p>https://saltathletic.com/?ref=glasshousesoccer</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 06 Oct 2026 17:51:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5904770 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5904770 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire's Chris Brady started in net for the USMNT in their friendly vs. Chile this week. Despite conceding one goal through 45 minutes of play, the critics and USA fans have been highly critical of the Brady's performance. Out host, Nick, thinks a lot of the criticism is unfair, uninformed, and just plain wrong.</p> <p>Nick provides several different areas of context for how we should evaluate Brady's performance for The Yanks. He discusses the context of the friendlies, the opponents, and the composition of the United States Men's National Team. Nick also addresses Brady's mistakes when the team conceded and looks at his performance in Major League Soccer as compared to other top MLS goalkeepers.</p> <p>How do you think Brady and USMNT performed? Is the criticism warranted?</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p> <p>Support our Show Partners:</p> <p>https://www.dubby.gg/discount/GLASSHOUSE?ref=yesixvek</p> <p>https://saltathletic.com/?ref=glasshousesoccer</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Fri, 02 Oct 2026 18:58:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5891639 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5891639 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire are back in the win column! The Men in Red did just enough against a Charlotte FC team vying with them for playoff positioning to secure 3 points and keep the dream of a Top 4 Eastern Conference Playoff spot alive.</p> <p>Nick looks at the goal by Johan Gomez - his first for the Fire, standout play by the Mbekezeli Mbokazi upon his return from injury, and an improved performance by the much-maligned Dje D'Avilla. Nick looks at the tactics that worked for this rotated squad and the impact it will have on the season going forward. He also previews the Fire's next match, a rescheduled home game at Soldier Field against the Western Conference leading Vancouver Whitecaps. The 'Caps still have top scorers Brian White and Thomas Mueller, but like the Fire, they are without several key players who are on international duty, including assist leader Edier Ocampo. Stay tuned to find out how Chicago can control the game and come away with another win.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p> <p>Support our Show Partners:</p> <p>https://www.dubby.gg/discount/GLASSHOUSE?ref=yesixvek</p> <p>https://saltathletic.com/?ref=glasshousesoccer</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 29 Sep 2026 14:31:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5879608 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5879608 <p>Hey, soccer fans! With all the hand-wringing and clutching of pearls around the Chicago Fire's on-field performances, we've missed some news happening around the club. Let Nick get you caught up with the latest new: Jack Elliott's contract extention and the impact on the roster or centerbacks. Will he continue to be the starter and captain alongside Andreas Hanche-Olsen, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Noah Allen? How does the depth at centerback look with Sam Rogers, Mauricio Pineda, and Christopher Cupps contract situations? Nick breaks it all down for you.</p> <p>We also look at the progress on the Chicago Fire's new stadium, McDonald's Park. Recent updates from the club and from other news outlets like Crain's discuss the status of the stadium construction, the team's digital infrastructure partner Boldyn Networks, ticket availability, and when is the anticipated opening.</p> <p>Nick also provides an update on the Men in Red called up to international duty: Robert Lewandowski to Poland, Robin Lod to Finland, Puso Dithejane to South Africa, Anzor Mekvabishvili to Georgia, Noah Allen to Greece Under-21s, and our very own homegrown goalkeeper Chris Brady to the USMNT. CFII players in MLS Next Pro also received call-ups, with Vitaliy Hlyut going to Ukraine's Under-19s and Jason Nemo, Jr. and Christopher Morales going to the USMNT Under-17s.</p> <p>Nick then takes a look up and down the Major League Soccer standings, noting which clubs have a home playoff match secure, which are fighting to move up the table, and which are just fighting for any sort of playoff chances. To close out the show, we note a number of transfers that could impact the Eastern Conference and MLS Cup playoff picture.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:31:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5858112 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5858112 Tue, 22 Sep 2026 22:11:45 GMT Alex Campbell https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5859430 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5859430 <p>Hey, soccer fans! Can the Chicago Fire come back from Nashville without it looking like the season is on the brink of collapse? The Music City has been a house of horrors for the Men in Red over the years, and this season was no different. The Fire didn't just lose 3-0, they looked completely out of the game from the first minute. Sam Surridge, Hany Mukhtar, Brian Schwake, Cristian Espinoza, and their Supporters Shield leading squad - coached by former Gregg Berhalter USMNT assistant BJ Callaghan - showed Chicago why they are the best team in Major League Soccer (MLS).</p> <p>But this just wasn't a single bad performance. It was the culmination of a month-long drop in performance and slide down the standings for the Chicago Fire. In this episode, Nick goes into great detail on the factors contributing to the Fire's late season demise. From things out of their control (schedule, injuries, officiating, etc.) to a lackluster offense, from a void in midfield to an exhausted defense, combined with head-scratching coaching and roster decisions, Nick examines it all and tries to find a way to fix it before it's took late.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Sun, 20 Sep 2026 19:10:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5852496 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5852496 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire are in free fall. They're winless in five matches, have dropped to 5th in the Eastern Conference, and are in danger of falling further if they don't identify and solve their problems. Nick identifies the negative trends on offense, defense, tactics, and signings and tries to find a way to turn the team around.</p> <p>The offense has been reconfigure to center around super-star striker Robert Lewandowski, and the Polish goal sccoring great has been finding the back of the net at almost the same rate as former Golden Boot leader Hugo Cuypers. That leaves some offensive efficiency to be desired out of Philip Zinckernagel, Jonathan Bamba, Puso Dithejane, and Johan Gomez, while Maren Haile-Selassie and Robin Lod continue to pitch in with goal contributions.</p> <p>On defense, the club needs to keep their shape, get new signing Andreas Hanche-Olsen on the pitch, get Mbekezeli Mbokazi back from injury, and help Noah Allen get more comfortable as he plays both center back and left back. The Men in Red also need to figure out how to control the midfield while waiting on the return of Andre Franco and the arrival of Georgian international Anzor Mekvabishvili.</p> <p>There's no time to lose as the Fire face Nashville SC, the Vancouver Whitecaps, and other Major League Soccer opponents in the coming weeks.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 15 Sep 2026 17:14:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5836674 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5836674 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire offense treated fans to four goals against Toronto FC over the weekend. Unfortunately, the defense treated us to four goals allowed as the Men in Red split points with their neighbor to the north. Nick breaks down each of the defensive failings that led to goals and how the Fire's defensive issues could cost them a top spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs.</p> <p>Nick also looks ahead to the marquee matchup between Chicago and Inter Miami, being billed as Lewandowski vs. Messi by many media outlets (including the clubs and MLS itself). There's so much more to the game than those two players, as Nick points out. Stay tuned and enjoy the show!</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 08 Sep 2026 18:26:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5815448 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5815448 <p>The Fire prepare to entertain Lionel Messi and friends tomorrow night amid a bit of a turbulent time for the squad. Three straight draws, a frenzied end to the transfer window, and unknown futures for a couple of those signings as well as players out injured mean the Fire aren’t at their best ahead of one of the most pivotal remaining matches of the season. We recap that flurry of late summer roster moves, look and what has and hasn’t worked in the string of 1-point results, and look ahead to what might be the GOAT’s final visit to Chicago. Also, injuries and a sudden retirement.</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 08 Sep 2026 22:11:37 GMT Alex Campbell https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5815807 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5815807 <p>Hey, soccer fans! Major League Soccer's summer transfer window has officially closed, and the Chicago Fire made eight moves on deadline day. They brought four new players in and moved four players out, not counting the prior loan of defender Christopher Cupps to Greenock Morton. Did the club meet their roster needs of improved midfield, attacking depth, and support on the backline? Nick breaks it all down, including how the transfers address those needs, concerns on the roster status, and how the revamped team will look on the pitch.</p> <p>Players In: Johan Gomez, Andreas Hanche-Olsen, Anzor Mekvabishvili, Noah Allen<br /> Players Out: Viktor Radojevic, Jason Shokalook, Dylan Borso, Joel Waterman</p> <p>Also, congrats to winger Philip Zinckernagel and the club for renegotiating his contract and making him a Designated Player! It's a well-deserved and well-earned contract for Zinck, who has been a star for both the Men in Red and the league.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Thu, 03 Sep 2026 16:35:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5803005 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5803005 <p>Hey, soccer fans! Major League Soccer has proposed a new playoff format to coincide with its new calendar. The proposal moves away from the current single-elimination tournament to a double-elimination tournament seeing up to 20 teams qualifying for the post-season. The top eight teams in the league will face double-elimination with lower finishing teams battling it out in a lose-and-go-home scenario. Teams are also re-seeded after every round to ensure teams with the better regular season record maintain home field advantage.</p> <p>This is a massive change to MLS's current format and a huge departure from anything in American sports. In fact, they consulted with the Australian Football Leaugue, who plays Aussie Rules Football, to come up with this format. Nick is extremely critical of this proposed change - there's no consistency within the league - this is perhaps the fifth or sixth playoff iteration in league history. The proposal also tries to incentivize the regular season but gives more worse teams the opportunity to make a post-season run. It's confusing to new fans of soccer and MLS, and looks purely like a business move to beef up a tv package offering.</p> <p>What do you think of the new proposal? How would you fix the MLS Cup Playoffs - assuming it's even broken?</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:24:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5794024 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5794024 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire have loaned homegrown centerback Christopher Cupps to Greenock Morton FC of the Scottish Championship - the second division in Scotland. While a seemingly underwhelming move, it could have its benefits for the 18 year old up-and-comer who has not seen many minutes with the Fire first team. Tune in as Nick explores the benefits of the move and the concerns he has.</p> <p>Cupps' loan also got Nick thinking - with this loan, the downturn in minutes for Pineda and Oregel, the sale of Gutierrez last season, and the lack of a true back-up striker, has the Chicago Fire gotten away from one of its "bedrock" principles of developing local talent? Nick takes a look at how the Men in Red have handled players such as Chris Mueller, Andrew Gutman, Brian Gutierrez, Chris Brady, Mauricio Pineda, Sergio Oregel, Dean Boltz, Dylan Borso, Jason Shokalook, and Robert Turdean while increasing their international signings.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Thu, 27 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5767972 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5767972 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire front office continues its pursuit of midfield firepower during the summer transfer window. They have targeted Georgian international Anzor Mekvabishvili, currently playing in Romania's top flight. The Men in Red were turned down by his current club, Universitatea Craiova earlier this year, but the club have stuck with their valuation (reportedly a little above $2 million) and the deal looks close to getting done.</p> <p>The signing seems to fit the Fire's profile for recent midfield targets: Kevin De Bruyne, Patrick Berg, and Leon Goretzka. However, they've settled for Dje D'Avilla and Anton Saletros, whose performances in the midfield leave soemthing to be desired on a team with trophy aspirations.</p> <p>Tune in to hear Nick's takes on the transfer target, including how the Fire got to this point/what need they're trying to fill, what's the profile of Mekvabishvili, and how will he integrate to the team. If this signing goes the way the Fire want it to, Mekvabishvili will unlock the offense and control matches from his midfield position. If this is a bust, then the Fire will have another decent defensive midfielder taking up an international roster slot.</p> <p>What do you think about the transfer target? How will Mekvabishvili fare in Major League Soccer?</p> <p>Subscribe for weekly Chicago Fire soccer breakdowns, and comment below on which player you think has been the most important during this winning run.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:04:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5756580 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5756580 <p>Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire winning streak is officially at five games. See how the team secured their current form across MLS and Leagues Cup play.</p> <p>This breakdown covers the recent momentum behind the Chicago Fire soccer squad as they navigate a busy schedule. We analyze how the team managed to secure two critical MLS victories alongside three impressive performances in the Leagues Cup. This update is for supporters tracking the club's trajectory and those interested in how the current Chicago Fire winning streak compares to the rest of the league.</p> <p>By winning all three of their Leagues Cup games outright, the team has set a unique standard in the tournament. We examine what this consistency means for their upcoming matches and why the Leagues Cup results have been a significant turning point for the roster. Understanding these MLS highlights provides a clear picture of the team's tactical improvements and current confidence on the field.</p> <p>Subscribe for weekly Chicago Fire soccer breakdowns, and comment below on which player you think has been the most important during this winning run.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:59:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5739307 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5739307 Tue, 18 Aug 2026 22:11:19 GMT ALEX CAMPBELL, JOE CHATZ https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5740215 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5740215 <p>Hey, soccer fans! It's that time of year again - Leagues Cup is back! The Chicago Fire and Major League Soccer take on their southern rivals from Liga MX in the latest edition of the tournament. With a new format and new opponets, Nick gets you primed and ready. He'll point out the players to watch on the Men in Red's opponents and break down their tactics and formations.</p> <p>Nick also gives his opinion on how the Chicago Fire should approach the tournament. Given their poor play post-World Cup and their health issues, Leagues Cup should be a time for the club to develop depth and give the back half of their roster a lot of minutes. The MLS schedule doesn't get any easier for the Fire with a home match vs. Portland and road games at Orlando, New York, and Seattle right after.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5704329 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5704329 <p>After two dismal performances out of the World Cup break, the Chicago Fire returned to Soldier Field on Saturday night, where Robert Lewandowski announced himself to the city with two goals to defeat Charlotte FC. What was different about this game, and does it look like the Fire have figured some things out after looking lost in Miami and New York? Also, just when we were getting used to MLS being back, it’s time for another break because of Leagues Cup. Should the Fire care about this tournament? How much does it depend on Thursday’s first game against Necaxa, with Santos Laguna and Cruz Azul to follow?</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 04 Aug 2026 22:08:35 GMT Alex Campbell https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5705909 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5705909 <p>Hey, soccer fans! Time to shake off the Chicago Fire's two-game losing streak to Inter Miami and New York City FC and get ready to start a win streak against Charlotte FC this weekend at Soldier Field. The Men in Red look to right the ship against an Eastern Conference opponent coming in with good form. Tune in as Nick breaks down the players to watch, the possible tactics and lineups for each team, and his predictions for the match.</p> <p>Nick also breaks down advanced goalkeeping and defensive stats in a comparison of starting goalkeepers Chris Brady and Kristijan Kahlina. Brady is one of the best 'keepers in Major League Soccer when it comes to Clean Sheets Earned this year, but Kahlina has been one of the best in MLS over the last several seasons, despite a downturn in production this year.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Thu, 30 Jul 2026 16:24:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5694092 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5694092 <p>Hey, soccer fans! Are the Chicago Fire in panic mode? Should they be? After dropping two straight matches to Inter Miami (without Messi and de Paul) and New York City FC (with Matt Freese), the Men in Red seem to be in free-fall. Nick breaks down their mental issues, individual performances, tactical failings, and organizational fumbles.</p> <p>Nick also looks at advanced stats to analyze the performance of the Chicago Fire's central midfielder pair of Dje D'Avilla and Anton Saletros. Despite early signs of success, the midfield has become a black-hole for the Fire with their starting double-pivot failing to contribute on offense and becoming a defensive liability.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 28 Jul 2026 16:33:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5688008 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5688008 <p>Hey, soccer fans! It's been a few days, but the emotions of losing Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX are still very strong. Tune in as Nick goes through his anger, bargaining, and acceptance, as he tries to make sense of why the Chicago Fire would transfer their All-Star striker and MLS Golden Boot leader. Was there ever a world where both Cuypers and Polish international superstar Robert Lewandowski could have co-existed, or was there simply no way a player of Cuypers' talent could play second-fiddle - even to an all-time great.</p> <p>Nick looks at the emotional impact, the roster implications, and the financial aspects of the Men in Red's recent moves, and gives his not-too-optimistic take on the rest of the season.</p> <p>Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show.</p> <p>Follow the<a href="https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/news?pid=18120"> Fire on SportSpyder</a>.</p> <p>Connect on social media:<a href="https://x.com/glasshousesoccr"> Twitter</a> -<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556225108002"> Facebook</a> -<a href="https://www.instagram.com/glasshousesoccer/"> Instagram</a> -<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@glasshousesoccer"> YouTube</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 21 Jul 2026 01:29:00 GMT Bleav + Glass House Soccer https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5668648 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5668648 <p>So much for all the planning and talk of Hugo Cuypers and Robert Lewandowski playing together! Following the arrival of the Polish legend, the MLS Golden Boot leader informed the Fire of his desire to leave the club. Thus, a deal has been agreed in principle with CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a $7.5 million transfer fee. Is that good value? What do the Fire have to do now to improve the team and maximize Lewandowski’s skills? Should they have seen this coming?  Also: Andre Franco and Leonardo Barroso still aren’t healthy, which isn’t great. A VERY busy second half of the season begins Wednesday in Miami, buckle up!</p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p> Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:30:48 GMT Alex Campbell https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5671332 https://sportspyder.com/mls/chicago-fire/episodes/5671332