Get to know the matchup in Keys to the Game, presented by Honda:
Tick Tock
Time is running out for both the New York Red Bulls and the Chicago Fire to extend their season and make the playoffs.
Both teams currently sit three points below the line in the Eastern Conference, but both have a game in hand on New York City FC.
With four matches left for both teams, it is getting to be crunch time, and whichever team plays with a sense of urgency will likely get the better result.
Start of Something?
The New York Red Bulls put five goals past D.C. United on Saturday, their highest total in a match since July 19, 2017 against San Jose.
It was the first time they scored more than one goal since the Leagues Cup match against Atlético de San Luis.
Head Coach Troy Lesesne and the Red Bulls will hope this is the spark that their offense needed, and that it will continue as they push for a playoff spot.
Fernandez on Fire
Omir Fernandez had a brace against D.C. United and now has a team-leading eight goals across all competitions.
Against a Chicago side that has allowed 16 goals in their last seven matches since the return from Leagues Cup, Fernandez could continue to add to his total and propel the Red Bulls to a much-needed three points.
