Chicago Fire FC II today announced that they will face New York Red Bulls II in the opening round of the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro playoffs at MSU Soccer Park in Montclair, N.J. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. CT on Sunday, Oct. 1. The match will be broadcast live for free on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
This season, MLS NEXT Pro introduced the “Pick Your Opponent” format for the postseason. With Crown Legacy FC claiming the first seed, they received a bye into the quarterfinals and did not make a selection. New England Revolution 2 selected first, electing to play against 7-seeded Philadelphia Union II. With the second and final pick, Columbus Crew 2 elected to host Orlando City B this weekend. With Chicago Fire FC II not being selected, the Club will face the Red Bulls II on Sunday afternoon.
Chicago Fire FC II (9-8-11-5, 43 points) finished the 2023 regular season in sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings. The Fire II clinched their playoff berth with a 2-2 draw against Huntsville City FC last Sunday afternoon. With the extra point being claimed in the penalty shootout win, the Fire jumped to sixth place in the table.
Led by golden boot leader Billy Hency and Guyanese winger Omari Glasgow, Sunday will mark Chicago Fire FC II’s first appearance in the postseason since MLS NEXT Pro’s inception in 2022.
