The second round of the MLS brings an intriguing clash as Chicago Fire host CF Montréal at Soldier Field on February 26 at 14:30 local time. It will be the first home match of the season for the Fire, who are looking to bounce back after a narrow defeat in their opening fixture. This encounter marks the 33rd meeting between the two sides, with Montréal holding the historical edge thanks to 14 wins, while Chicago have claimed 10 victories. Both teams began the new campaign with losses, but the manner of those defeats was quite different — Chicago fell 2-1 away to Houston Dynamo, while Montréal suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat against San Diego FC.

Chicago Fire’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Chicago Fire enter this match ranked 9th in the MLS standings after their opening loss. Despite the setback, their attacking potential remains evident, having scored in their last outing and maintaining an average of 1.6 goals per game across their last five matches. However, defensive issues persist, with an average of 2.0 goals conceded per match in that same period. The Fire’s recent record shows 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 defeats in their last five fixtures, underlining the need for greater consistency.

Goal trends continue to define Chicago’s matches. Over 1.5 total goals have been scored in each of their last 14 MLS games, while the first half has seen at least one goal in 19 of their last 21 league fixtures. The second half is often lively as well, with over 0.5 goals scored in 18 of their last 20 matches. These statistics suggest that fans at Soldier Field can expect an open and entertaining contest.

• Last match: Lost 2-1 vs Houston Dynamo (2026-02-22)


• Average goals scored: 1.0 | Average conceded: 2.0


• Over 1.5 goals in last 14 MLS matches


• Over 0.5 goals at half time in 19 of last 21 MLS matches

CF Montréal’s Recent Form and Key Stats

CF Montréal have endured a difficult start to the season, sitting 15th in the MLS table after a 5-0 defeat to San Diego FC. That result extended a worrying defensive trend, as the Canadian side have now conceded at least one goal in each of their last 15 league matches. Their last five fixtures across all competitions show 1 win, 1 draw, and 3 defeats, with an average of 1.0 goal scored and 2.4 conceded per game.

Montréal’s away form also raises concerns. Over 0.5 goals have been scored in the second half of each of their last 14 away matches, and the first half has produced at least one goal in 21 of their last 23 league games. These patterns indicate that their matches tend to open up quickly, often exposing their defensive vulnerabilities. The team will need to tighten up at the back if they are to avoid another heavy defeat.

• Last match: Lost 5-0 vs San Diego FC (2026-02-22)


• Average goals scored: 0.0 | Average conceded: 5.0


• Over 1.5 goals in last 15 MLS matches


• At least 1 goal conceded in last 15 MLS matches

Head-to-Head and Match Outlook

Historically, the rivalry between Chicago Fire and CF Montréal has been competitive. In their last five meetings, Chicago have recorded 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat, scoring an average of 1.4 goals per game while conceding 1.2. The most recent encounter ended 0-2 in favor of Montréal on July 19, 2025. Both teams have shown a tendency to find the net when facing each other, and given their current defensive fragilities, another high-scoring affair could be on the cards.

For Chicago, playing at home offers a valuable opportunity to recover from their opening loss and build momentum early in the season. Montréal, on the other hand, will be desperate to respond after their heavy defeat and prove that their defensive collapse was an early-season anomaly. With both sides struggling to keep clean sheets, the match promises attacking intent from the first whistle.

Chicago Fire vs CF Montréal Prediction and Analysis

Both teams come into this fixture with something to prove. Chicago Fire will rely on their attacking rhythm to exploit Montréal’s defensive weaknesses, while the visitors will aim to rediscover their scoring touch after a disappointing start. The statistical trends strongly suggest goals at both ends — Chicago have scored in most of their recent matches, and Montréal’s defense has been consistently breached.

Given the offensive tendencies and defensive lapses on both sides, this encounter is likely to produce multiple goals. The Fire’s home advantage could tilt the balance slightly in their favor, but Montréal’s counterattacking potential should not be underestimated. Expect an open game with plenty of chances for both teams.

Chicago Fire vs CF Montréal prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 59% probability.