For the first time in eight years, Chicago Fire FC have qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs, and their season comes down to a winner-take-all match Wednesday.
The Fire, who finished eighth in the Eastern Conference, earned a home match as they take on Orlando City SC in a wild card match Wednesday night.
Here’s what you need to know about the big match on Wednesday.
Where is the game being played?
While most of their home matches are played at Soldier Field, Wednesday’s showdown will take place at Bridgeview’s Seat Geek Stadium, with the Fire hoping for a victory to advance into the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals next week.
The wild card match is a single-elimination affair, with the winner advancing in the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Tickets are still available via the Fire’s website.
Where will the game be televised?
The game will be available on MLS Season Pass, and will air on Apple TV.
Who would the winner of the match face next?
The winner of Wednesday’s game will take on top-seeded Philadelphia Union in a first-round best-of-three series, which would kick off on Sunday in Philadelphia.
The return fixture would take place in Bridgeview on Saturday, November 1 if the Fire qualify.
How did Chicago Fire FC do this season?
The Fire finished in eighth place in the MLS’ Eastern Conference, but they were one of the league’s most dynamic offenses, finishing only behind the Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami in goals scored on the season.
Hugo Cuypers was one of the league’s best scorers, leading the Fire with 17 goals in MLS play this season.
Midfielder Philip Zinckernagel registered 15 goals of his own, and led the team with 15 assists on the year.
Chris Brady led the way in goal for the Fire, putting up six clean sheets and making 93 saves in 28 games played for Chicago.
How have games between Chicago and Orlando gone this season?
The two teams have played twice, playing to a scoreless draw on May 3 in Chicago. The Fire then won the return fixture in Orlando on May 31 by a 3-1 margin.