soccer Soccer

Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire MLS Picks: Union to Record First Win of 2026? (Mar 21)

Published Mar 18, 5:33am ET by

Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer

Last updated Mar 18, 5:33am ET

Pick status
MLS action is set for Subaru Park on March 21. Find the odds and our Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire picks here.

Credit: Shutterstock

Updated Mar 18, 5:33am ET

  • Philadelphia Union are winless in their opening four games
  • Chicago Fire have won once and drawn twice in four fixtures

MLS action is set for Subaru Park on March 21, as the Philadelphia Union chase a first win of the season when they host the Chicago Fire.

The Union sit bottom of the Eastern Conference after losing four straight games, while the Fire have picked up four points at the start of 2026.

Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire Overview Watch On: Apple TV

DATE & TIME

Saturday, March 21, 2026 @ 4:30 PM ET
Philadelphia Union
Subaru Park, Philadelphia
Chicago Fire
GAME ODDS
BetOnline
Philadelphia +125
The Draw +206
Chicago +259

Union Struggling to Hit Heights from Last Season

Last season was one to remember for the Philadelphia Union, but they are failing to reach the same heights in 2026. The Union have started 2026 with four straight losses, which includes an extremely disappointing display last time out when losing 3-1 to Atlanta United.

Philadelphia’s biggest issue to this point has been converting chances. They have created an xG of 1.62, but have scored just 0.5 goals per 90.

There will be pressure on Bruno Damiani to change their fortunes in front of the goal, with the South American having failed to score in four at the start of the season after netting eight in 2025.  

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Possible Lineup
(4-4-2) Blake (GK); Westfield, Harriel, Makhanya, Ndinga; Vassilev, Lukic, Jacques, Iloski; Bedoya, Damiani

Fire Enjoying Consistent Start to 2026

The Chicago Fire have had the tools in their arsenal to mount a serious playoff challenge in the last couple of season, but 2026 is the first time that they appear to be clicking into gear.

Chicago have made a reliable start to the season, picking up four points from as many fixtures. However, there will be pressure on the team to bounce back after a 2-1 home loss to D.C. United last Sunday.

Despite having the majority of the ball, the Fire failed to create many scoring chances, with their only goal in response by Hugo Cuypers coming from the penalty spot.

Possible Lineup
(4-3-3) Brady (GK); Barroso, Elliott, Mbokazi, Dean; Saletros, D’Avilla, Zinckernagel; Lod, Cuypers, Bamba
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Head-to-Head Record
TOTAL Philadelphia Chicago DRAWS
Games 44 20 13 11
Goals 134 76 58

Philadelphia vs. Chicago Picks

Scoring goals has proven troublesome for the Union this season, but this could be a golden opportunity to get a first win on the board. Philadelphia have won 14 of their 22 home games against the Fire, losing just three times.

Pick
Philadelphia
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50% up to $1000
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