Shaky Chicago Fire Defence Points to Over Goals

Team news: Chicago Fire were second best for chances in their last league game against New York City FC and fell behind early. Centre-back Joel Waterman equalised midway through the first half, but the team could not build on it and then conceded twice again before the break, eventually losing the match. High-profile European striker Robert Lewandowski came on at the start of the second half, but delivered an ordinary display and still needs time to settle in.

Charlotte FC, in their last league outing against New York Red Bulls, had far fewer attempts than their opponents but were far more clinical in front of goal. Attacking midfielder Pep Biel and defensive midfielder Ashley Westwood both scored early, securing all three points. Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina made six saves and produced an excellent performance to keep a clean sheet.

Chicago Fire will be without defender Chase Gasper through injury, while Charlotte FC are missing midfielder Brandon Cambridge. Neither side has any suspension concerns.

Recent form: Chicago Fire lost 3-1 to New York City FC last time out, making it consecutive league defeats. They have conceded three goals in each of those matches, underlining their defensive frailties. Across their last three home league games, they have one win and two defeats, with goals at one end but even more conceded at the other.

Charlotte FC beat New York Red Bulls 2-0 in their most recent league match and are now unbeaten in four league games, with three wins and one draw. Even so, they have only one win and three defeats from their last four away league matches, and their defence has also looked unsteady on the road. With both sides showing defensive issues, the best angle for this match is over on goals.

Head-to-head: In the last six league meetings, Charlotte FC have won four and lost two. Chicago Fire won the previous meeting 3-2, and that match produced four corners.