Feed the Fire: A Chicago Fire Podcast

Hey, soccer fans! It's a great time to support the Chicago Fire! The club is on a 4 game win-streak across all competitions. They've moved into a play-in spot in the Eastern Conference standings and advanced to the quarterfinals of the US Open Cup, and they are about to announce signing international superstar Kevin DeBruyne! (If you believe the international reports.) Tune in as we breakdown all the news for the Men in Red and preview their match against NYCFC this upcoming Sunday. Nick is predicting a winner, so tune in to hear how the Fire stack up against the Pigeons and how they pull off yet another road win. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Nick is back after a two-week break. Don't you hate it when life gets in the way of soccer? In this episode, Nick takes a look back at the last four matches played by the Men In Red. He discusses the stats, plays, and trends from this time, and looks just a bit forward to the Fire's US Open Cup matchup vs. New England Revolution. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! That was a historically bad performance we witnessed as fans of the Chicago Fire. It seems like we say that at least once a season. At least we get it out of the way early in 2025...? The Men in Red conceded a franchise record seven goals en route to a 7-2 loss in Nashville. The defense absoltely came apart, the offense couldn't get anything going, and the team looked like it gave up barely 25 minutes into the match. What's the issue: injuries, roster construction, tactics, motivation, or a combo of them all? We'll try to dissect it in this week's episode. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire made a statement in their draw against Inter Miami CF this weekend. Despite a lack of goals by both clubs, the Men in Red showed the league that they can go toe-to-toe with the best in MLS. Both clubs had opportunities to find the net, and Chicago couldn't find the finishing touch to steal a win late. Hopefully this adds momentum and confidence as the club looks toward a tough stretch of matches. In this episode Nick also examines the reported offer the Chicago Fire have made to Kevin De Bruyne, previews the Fire's next match against FC Cincinnati, and discusses Chris Brady's development. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! We all knew the Chicago Fire's unbeaten run had to end sometime, but I just wish it wasn't after outplaying the New York Red Bulls and giving up a couple preventable goals. The Men in Red's injuries and lack of depth is starting to show, but despite the defensive woes, the offensive put up good stats - except where it mattered most: the scoreboard. Listen in as our host breaks down MLS' coverage of the Fire, recaps the Red Bulls match, and previews their next opponent - a hopefully star-studded affair versus Inter Miami. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! After a tough draw against CF Montreal, the Chicago Fire may be running out of steam. A five-game point streak is no easy accomplishment, and the roster continues to see injuries. Tune in to hear how new signing Dje D'Avilla can help the Men in Red's midfield woes, and what the Fire need to do to continue their fine run of form against the reigning Eastern Conference champions: the New York Red Bulls. Nick recaps the stats, the plays and players, and trends from the latest match and gives you his predictions and expectations for the next. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Nick is back recapping the Vancouver match and previewing the Chicago Fire's next opponent: a struggling CF Montreal. The Fire used their wingers and their attack to keep Vancouver on their backheels most of the match, and the Men in Red will surely look to unleash their offense against a CF Montreal club that has only scored 2 goals on the season, and none in their last 4 matches. Nick predicts a 3-0 win at home. What are your expectations? Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire are on a 2 game win streak, having won two in a row on the road. Tune in as we recap the key moments, stats, and tactics from the Men in Red's victory over Toronto FC. We also look ahead to the Fire's next match, another road game in Canada, against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Nick breaks down the top players for Vancouver and how the USMNT's upcoming Nations League match will affect the lineups for both teams. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Welcome back to Feed the Fire, where in this episode we are previewing the Chicago Fire's next match - an away game at Toronto FC. Join our host as he looks at Toronto's roster, formation, and recent run of form before predicting the outcome. Nick also looks at a new piece of proposed legisltation in Illinois: The BEARS Act. If passed, this law would condition public funding for new stadiums to a team's on-field performance. Think it's just a political message or does the law have legs? Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! It's always a better week when your team wins, and it's a much better week in the Windy City! The Chicago Fire won their first match of the season, a 3-1 victory over FC Dallas. The Men in Red keep the Brimstone Cup and show the grit and tenacity necessary to win when you're dealing with injuries. Tune in as Nick breaks down the key plays, stats, and tactics of the match. In the second half, Nick examines advanced goalkeeping statistics and compares Chris Brady to the rest of the league. The 21 year old 'keeper has a lot of growing to do in MLS, but he's well on his way to becoming one of the best in the league. Tune in and see how he stacks up against the competition. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Welcome back to Feed the Fire, where in today's episode we are previewing the Chicago Fire's upcoming match against FC Dallas. The two clubs haven't met since 2022, and both have turned over their rosters this past off-season. Dallas boasts a strong attack, led by former league MVP and FC Cincinnatti star, Lucho Acosta. The key for Chicago's Men in Red will be to keep Dallas spread out and on their heels by playing wide and counter-attacking. Nick also briefly reviews the history of the Brimstone Cup - the rivalry trophy between supporters groups for both the clubs. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube  

Hey, soccer fans! It was cold on the lakefront for the Chicago Fire's home opener against DC United, but the crowd got fired up from two goals from Hugo Cuypers before being left in the cold - again - by a last-second equalizer. Tune in as Nick breaks down the lineup, stats, and performance of the Men in Red. We also hear from special guest John Donovan on his impressions of the match. In the second half of the show, we discuss the potential problem between Philip Zinckernagel and Jonathan Dean, and how it could impact the Fire squad going forward. We close the show recapping the results from around Major League Soccer and the Concacaf Champions Cup. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! MLS is back at it again, this time with the MLS Disciplinary Committee issuing a fine to Leo Messi and Luis Suarez for their actions against NYCFC - grabbing the neck of an opposing player and coach - but suspending the Chicago Fire's Brian Gutierrez for a match after a hard foul and contact to an opponent's head. Are we seeing The Messi Rules finally coming into plain view? Or do you think these two instances can be reconciled? In the second half of the show, Nick previews the Men in Red's home opener against DC United. Stay tuned to hear the transfers in and out for DC and how the match is expected to go. The Fire squandered opportunities to take points against bad Eastern Conference teams last season, and if they want to make the playoffs, can't do it again. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! MLS IS BACK! And it feels like the Chicago Fire never left, after an opening weekend loss where they let a 2-1 lead spiral into a 4-2 defeat. The Men in Red quickly showed what the new lineup is capable of, with Jonathan Bamba assisting two Brian Gutierrez goals. But the defense showed they need work and the roster is still not complete as the Columbus Crew were able to score three straight to seal the victory. Tune in as our host breaks down the stats, analyzes the film, and gives you his perspective on the Chicago Fire's opening match of 2025. Nick also recaps the other matches from around Major League Soccer, noting the wild results from the opening weekend. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Nick is back after a whirlwind week encompassing four different interviews. Be sure to check out The Designated Players Podcast, News Across the Galaxy, Battered MLS Fans, and The Wisemen Say Podcast for all of Nick's latest appearances and his spreading the knowledge of the Men in Red across the league. In this episode, we recap the Chicago Fire's pre-season performances and look ahead to the regular season. The "experts" at mlssoccer.com have predicted the Fire finish 9th place in the Eastern Conference. Is that too low or too high? Stay tuned to find out! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Nick is back talking Chicago Fire roster moves and pre-season lineups. The Men in Red continue to make signings to add depth to their lineup and the organization. This past week the club welcomes Omar Gonzalez and Claudio Cassano and saw the arrival of Jonathan Bamba to the training pitch. The Fire have yet to score in two pre-season matches, and the players are still getting used to their new teammates, but there are many reasons for optimism around the club. There's also optimism around the league with new 2025 MLS Roster Rules taking effect, including: raised salary cap, expanded supplemental slots, more opportunities for MLS Next Pro players, and a second buyout option. Make sure you tune in to hear how Nick thinks the Fire can take advantage of these new rules and what they will do for Major League Soccer as a whole. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! No news from the Chicago Fire this week, so we're looking big picture around Major League Soccer. Specifically, we're breaking down the new and improved Leagues Cup format where teams compete in ranked tiers against the opposing league for a berth in the knockout rounds. We also take a look at the possibility of MLS changing its schedule to align with the international calendar. And finally, we look at the valuation of MLS franchises and what the Men in Red can do to rank up. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The MLS sesaon is just around the corner, and the clubs have learned which North American cup competitions they'll be participating in. Tune in as our host breaks down the qualifying criteria and rounds up where each club will be playing. Whether Concacaf Champsions Cup, Leagues Cup, US Open Cup, or the Canadian Championship, be sure to support your squad. In the second half of the show, Nick discusses the likelihood of the Chicago Fire filling their third Designated Player position over the summer, and he updates you on CF II's latest signing: Defender Olu Oyegunle. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans, welcome back to Feed the Fire. We've got updates on Neymar, Rominigue Kouame, Robert Turdean, Federico Navarro, and Arnaud Souquet - so grab a drink, get comfortable, and tune in for the entire episode! We also get caught up with the new of MLS Next's expansion and the ever-widening talent net in America. What do you think of the roster moves? Do you like the expansion of MLS Next? Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Do you feel like dancing? Amidst the Neymar transfer talk, the Chicago Fire have signed winger Jonathan Bamba to a Designated Player contract. Bamba comes to the Fire after two season with La Liga side Celta de Vigo, previously playing in Belgium and France. The Ivory Coast international will play a key role in providing service to Hugo Cuypers and sparking the Fire's attack. Our host also updates you on the latest in the Neymar transfer saga. Will he end up with Chicago or return to his boyhood club Santos? Or is Neymar trying to tank the talks with the Men in Red to open the door for him to sign with Inter Miami and reunite with Barcelona teammates Leo Messi and Luis Suarez? Finally, we wrap the show by looking at Brian Gutierrez performance in his first call-up for the USMNT, a 73 minute "safe" performance against Venezuela. Hopefully, this is the first of many for the Fire homegrown. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! By now you've heard the reports that the Chicago Fire are in talks with Brazilian superstar Neymar - yes, that Neymar. There's been a lot of rumors and memes about it, but Nick has the latest info on the potential blockbuster deal. He also breaks down the advantages Neymar brings to the Men in Red and Major League Soccer, as well as discusses the drawbacks to signing a 32 year old, injury prone winger. Would you want to see Neymar pull on the red kit for the Fire? Nick also examines the other top players the Fire have been linked with, and he breaks down the new roster rules recently announced by MLS, detailing how they can help Gregg Berhalter and Co. assemble an exciting and competitive team for years to come. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Does anyone at the Chicago Fire take a day off? The club recently announced two new signings, both defenders that are sure to bolster the backline for the 2025 season. First, the Men in Red have signed Sam Rogers, a player that Gregg Berhalter gave a USMNT appearance in 2023. He has proven himself a solid player in Norway and USL, and hopefully his game will translate to Major League Soccer. The Fire also signed Portuguese youth international Leonardo Barroso. Barroso has a wealth of youth experience playing for Portugal and Sporting CP B, and will be part of the next generation of great Fire defenders - or the next great Fire transfer. In the second half, Nick looks at how these signings allowed Wyatt Ombserg to sign with the New England Revolution. We also discuss the financial issues that put the Philadelphia Union on the FIFA transfer ban list. Tune in for all this and more! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! New year, new Chicago Fire! The club has been extremely busy in 2025 in building out the attack. Our host Nick provides an update on the transfer fee for new winger Philip Zinckernagel, and how it has allowed Berhalter & Co. to pursue another high level winger, Frenchman Gaetan Perrin. Perrin is a star for French club Auxerre, helping them win promotion to Ligue 1 this season, and continuing his fine form with 5 goals and 4 assists so far. If the deal goes well for the Fire, they'll acquire another TAM-level winger ... and still have two Designated Player (DP) spots available! In the second half of the show, Nick looks at all the new additions to the Chicago Fire's coaching staff, including four new assistant coaches and a Director of Methodology and Talent Manager. These coaches have experience from all levels of American and international soccer and there will be no lack of ideas on how to get the most out the Men in Red. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire gave their fans a late Christmas present, announcing the signing of Danish winger Philip Zinckernagel. Zinckernagel comes to the Fire from Club Brugge, has a winning pedigree across several European leagues, and will be expected to generate offense and opportunities for Hugo Cuypers. Zinckernagel signed a four-year, TAM deal with the Men in Red, allowing them to keep both of their remaining Designated Player (DP) slots open. We also have international news, as the Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT announced their January camp roster. 24 players were called in - 23 from MLS rosters - including the Chicago Fire's own Brian Gutierrez. There will be stiff competition for who can impress the new head coach and givce themselves the opportunity to play for the Yanks in major competitions. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire house cleaning continues under new Director of Sport and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. This time, defense Tobias Salquist is on the outs, being transferred to FC Nordsjaelland of the Danish Superliga. Salquist will likely not be missed - he only appeared in 14 matches due to injuries - and when he played, looked like he could not keep up with the pace and physicality of MLS. In this episode, Nick also discusses the Philadelphia Union hiring new head coach Bradley Carnell. The former St. Louis City manager will likely play a high pressing style on the pitch, and off the pitch will likely agree with everything General Manager Ernst Tanner does. This hiring puts all the pressure on Tanner to get things right, or he'll likely be the next employee shown the door for the Union's failure. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire delivered a Christmas present to fans in the form of mutually parting ways with Gaston Gimenez. The Designated Player was a symbol of underperformance and burdensome contracts for the last five years, and by mutually terminating the contract, Gregg Berhalter & Co. have opened up a second DP spot and saved their one-time buyout (Heads up, Arnaud Souquet.) Our host also breaks down the latest front office hires for the Men in Red, and how Berhalter has filled out his sporting leadership team. Nick gives you the details on Darcy Norman, Eddie Rock, and Zayne M. Thomajan. He also breaks down the new season ticket exchange program, and how the new policies are signs of change for the club. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Thanks for joining our MLS Scheduling Show Spectacular! Major League Soccer has released its 2025 schedule, and we're taking a look at how the season will go - noting how the Coachella Invitational, Concacaf Champions Cup, and Leagues Cup will fit in. In the second half, Nick takes a deep dive into the Chicago Fire's season, pointing out his most anticipated match-ups and identifying areas of the season the Men in Red should be able to find some success. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire made their first signing of the off-season, inking former Philadephia Union defender Jack Elliott to a one-year deal with an option. The Englishment brings a wealth of MLS experience, solid defending, and a bit of an offensive threat to the Second City. With the centerback position likely secure, where will the Men in Red turn next? Nick also breaks down the players to watch in the MLS Re-Entry Draft, noting that Nicholas Gioachinni, Yaw Yeboah, and Ilas Iliadis are all available. He also discusses the Fire's participation in this year's Coachella Invitational tournament - an ever growing pre-season tournament for MLS and NWSL clubs. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! We have a treat for you in tonight's episode. Tune in to hear Nick's conversation with Chicago Fire Head Coach and Director of Sport Gregg Berhalter - admittedly, it was a public relations call, but a fun call nonetheless. Our host then reflects on San Diego FC's expansion draft and roster build. Also, MLS free agency is underway, and our host looks at the top free agents and whether any of them could fit into Berhalter's plans for the Men in Red. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Los Angeles Galaxy are your 2024 MLS Cup Champions after defeating the New York Red Bulls 2-1. They even did it without Riqui Puig! We look at the status and recap the game action, but then ask the question: "Is this the start of a Galaxy dynasty?" Tune in for Nick's answers and to hear how the Galaxy's win could impact how the Chicago Fire approach the 2025 season. In the second half, we discuss the latest signing for the Men in Red: David Poreba. The MLS Next Pro Golden Boot winner and league MVP is now with the Fire first team. Now let's get some rumors started as to who will be running alongside him on the wings! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The MLS Cup Final is set! The Los Angeles Galaxy are set to host the New York Red Bulls. Tune in as our host breaks down the expected game plan for each team and the impact players who will look to raise a trophy for their club. Even without an injured Riqui Puig, the Galaxy have a star-studded lineup. Meanwhile, the Red Bulls will have to play their pressing style to perfection. In the second half of the show, Nick addresses the transfer rumors surrounding fan favorite, Georgios Koutsias. The young striker has seen little playing time since coming to Chicago, and a transfer to Lugano may be in the works. Join the discussion about Koutsias' time as one of the Men in Red and what his future looks like. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you all find a reason to give thanks this week - and I am very thankful to be talking soccer with all of you. In tonight's episode, we address the rumors of Gregg Berhalter wanting to sign Aaron Long to the Chicago Fire. Would he be an upgrade to the Men in Red? Tune in for a statistical comparison with other Fire defenders. Nick also reviews all the official transfer news within the league, including Luis Suarez' extension in Miami and Nick Cushing's dismissal as NYCFC head coach. We also get a preview of the new Christian Pulisic docuseries airing on Paramount+ in December. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! As we get ready to feast for Thanksgiving, tune in to our appetizer show talking aboutteh front office changes for the Chicago Fire and the coaching changes in Miami and Vancouver. Sebastian Pelzer is out as Technical Director but moves full time to a position with FC Lugano - the Fire's sister club in Switzerland. His tenure in Chicago was anything but a success on the pitch, but some of his scouting and networking benefits can still be realized by the Men in Red. Meanwhile, we learn that Tata Martino's voluntary resignation may have been anything but voluntary as Inter Miami are looking to take their club in a different direction. And in more shocking news, Vanni Sartini has parted ways with the Vancouver Whitecaps after three-and-a-half seasons. Nick breaks down the developments and discusses where each club could go from here. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Major League Soccer is in the post-season, but every team continues to make headlines. Wilfried Nancy wins Coach of the Year, Tata Martino departs Inter Miami for personal reasons, and Eric Quill takes over FC Dallas. Tune in as Nick gives you all the details. Also, we break down the Crain's Chicago Business articles with new details on the Chicago Fire's search for a new stadium site. Two locations have emerged as favorites - The 78 and Licoln Yards - but each site has unique benefits. Nick concludes the show recapping the USMNT's victory over Jamaica in the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals. He looks at the lineup, the stats, and the tactics that propelled the Yanks to a 4-2 victory in their home leg. Nick also introduces a discussion of athletes as role models and why is Pulisic's Trump Dance goal celebration such a big deal. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! It's international break, but the Chicago Fire are still making headlines. They've announced the firing of Chicago Fire II's head coach Ludovic Taillandier after three years in the position and five years with the club. Tune in as Nick's gives you his thoughts on this move and what it means for the organization. Nick also breaks down the United States' Nations League quarterfinal match vs. Jamaica. He gives you him impressions of how the game played out and what the USMNT must do in the second leg. He also reviews the lineups, the roster composition, and the stats - yes, the US still is struggling on offense, but they got the away win in a competitive Concacaf match. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! It's chaos in the Eastern Conference of the MLS Cup Playoffs. All three top seeds are out in the first round, and none in more spectacular for than Inter Miami. Their star players were more focused on gamesmanship, assaulting opposing players, and screaming at the referee than actually playing defense, costing them the chance at the Supporters' Shield - MLS Cup Double. Tune in for Nick's reactions and his commentary on the rest of the playoff picture. Our host also shares stories of watching the matches with his family and attending the Chicago Fire's holiday photo shoot with Sparky, the Men in Red's mascot - just one of the benefits of the Fire 365 program. Nick also looks at the USMNT's roster for their upcoming Nations League quarterfinal match vs. Jamaica and what it could tell us about new head coach Mauricio Pochettino's plans for the Yanks. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Before the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs wraps up, we've got to talk coaching. The Chicago Fire hired former player Michael Stephens as Head of Recruitment and parted ways with assistant coaches Paulo Nagamura and Carlos Garcia. Tune in to hear the credentials of the coaches, why they were hired, and where the Men in Red can go from here. Our host also takes a look at all the coaching changes from around Major League Soccer this season, including recent breaking news: the Philadelphia Union have let go Jim Curtin and the San Jose Earthquakes have hired Bruce Arena. Nick takes a look at the circumstances around these moves and even how they could impact the Chicago Fire. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire are still making news even with the end of the MLS regular season. Chicago Fire II striker and Golden Boot winner David Poreba has been named MLS Next Pro MVP of the 2024 season. So why did he get any minutes with the senior team? Nick breaks down the reasons why. Nick also recaps the MLS Cup Playoffs, including the upsets, shoot-outs, and close results that have appeared in all match-ups outside of LA vs. Colorado. Is parity to blame, or is it someone else? Tune in for all this and more in this episode of Feed the Fire. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The MLS Cup Playoffs are in full swing, but we're still talking about the Chicago Fire. In this episode, Nick breaks down the Fire's roster decisions and takes a deep dive into the salaries of the players ,as recently released by the MLS Players Association. Which players were let go for financial reasons and which for their play - stay tuned to find out. In the 2nd half, Nick looks at the salaries from around the league. He discusses the highest paid players at each position, and he compares the Men in Red's top paid players with similarly compensated players from around the league. Who is a bargain? Who needs to be bought out? Tune in for all this and more in this episode of Feed the Fire! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The MLS Cup Playoffs are underway, and Nick breaks down all the matchups from the first round to the final. Do you agree with his assessment and his picks? Stay tuned as he recaps the wild card match-ups - truly wild affairs between Atlanta & Montreal and Vancouver & Portland - and looks ahead at the first round. In the second half, Nick reads Paul Tenorio's article in The Athletic discussing Major League Soccer's considerations for moving the leage to a fall-spring schedule. The league is analyzing every detail, from weather to attendance to the transfer market, to make its determination. Do you think there should be a change? Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire's 2024 MLS season is mercifully over. After another embarassing 3-0 loss, this time to fellow bottom-dweller Nashville SC, the Men in Red can now look to their off-season. Our host, too, looks at the future when he recaps the press conference introducing Gregg Berhalter as Director of Sport and Head Coach. Hear about the Berhalther and Mansueto's vision for the team and the possibility of the new stadium. In the second half of ths show, Nick looks at the MLS post-season awards and goes over the favorites for MLS MVP, Newcomer of the Year, Coach of the Year, and others. Tune in for all this and more in this episode of Feed the Fire: A Chicago Fire Podcast. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The season is nearly over, and Decision Day is upon us. The Chicago Fire host Nashville SC in the final match of the season to help determine who is the worst team of the Eastern Conference (Inter Miami defeating New England would help the Fire out, too.) We know that Nashville likes to play through Mukhtar and to Surridge, so the question is whether the Men in Red keep them in check and counter-attack. If they can, maybe a forgetable season will end on a high note. In the second half of the show, Nick comments on articles from Tom Boget and Matt Doyle about the Chicago Fire's season and what to expect in the off-season. These MLS pundits expand on our conversations about Gregg Berhalter's job, pieces to build around, and players to unload. Tune in for all this and more with Feed the Fire! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! It's official: Berhalter In! The former USMNT and Columbus Crew manager is the Chicago Fire's next Director of Football and Head Coach. In this episiode, Nick gives you all his reactions to the news, how he thinks the role will play out, and whether the early criticism of the hire is warranted. In the second half, Nick looks at non-coaching headlines from the Men in Red and answer the question of whether MLS should continue to observe international breaks. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Connect on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Another match, another loss for the Chicago Fire. Even after being eliminated from the playoffs the week prior, this was still a disappointment. The players and coaches didn't seem to care, and the scoreline belies the continued issues on both offense and defense for the Fire. Tune in as Nick breaks down the goals, stats, and observations from this match. In the second half, we take a look at the historical season Inter Miami is having. After clinching the Supporters' Shield, can the Herons set the single season point record, win MLS Cup, or both? Nick looks at the past teams that have done it and how the odds of Messi & Co. pulling off this feat aren't too low. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! It's all over - the Chicago Fire have been officially eliminated from the MLS Cup Playoffs this season. Despite a 1-1 draw, the Fire will be watching the playoffs for the seventh straight year - practically a mathematical impossibility. Tune in as Nick gives you his match impressions, breaks down the goals and the stats, and gives you things to watch for in the last two matches of the season. In the second half of the show, Nick talks about the fan protest that occurred during the match. How effective is a banner calling out the front office for lack of results? What alternatives could produce better results? Does anyone even care? All this in more on today's episode! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Nick is back after a week off and a trip to San Diego. It was nice of the Chicago Fire to not do anything while he was away. In this episode, we discuss the latest coaching candidates for MLS teams - including Gregg Berhalter to the Chicago Fire - the playoff race, the MVP conversation, and the trophy matches from last night. Stay tuned to the end to get caught up with all the headlines from around MLS and the American soccer landscape! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! It's happy podcast! The Chicago Fire finally get a win, the struggling strikers finally get their goals, and Fire fans once again are teased by the possibility of making the playoffs. Stay tuned to hear how the Men in Red got the win, with a special focus on the play of Greek striker Georgios Koutsias and his potential future with the club. In the second half, Nick charts the Men in Red's path to the playoffs and looks at some of the moves made by clubs with trophy aspirations. LAFC have re-signed Carlos Vela and added depth to their defense and bench, and Inter Miami have extended the contract of homegrown midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! We're back for another week of wondering if the Fire can change their fortunes from week to week. Next up, the playoff bound Red Bulls of New York. Though they played to a scoreless draw earlier in the season, this next meeting looks to have goals in store - with a struggling Fire defense and palyers returning from international duty. Tune in to hear the stars and strategies and how the Men in Red will match up against this Eastern Conference opponent. In the second half of the show, Nick gives his reactions to Arnaud Souquet's and Frank Klopas' midweek media availability. What can we learn from how the Fire will approach their next match and rest of the season? Tune in to find out! Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! Does it feel like we've seen this before? It's because we have! The Chicago Fire do the same thing every week, and every week the wonder why they can't win a game. Once again, the Men in Red come out flat, concede early, and then are forced to try to break down a defensive-minded opponent. Don't let the possession numbers fool you, the Fire were not in control of this game at any time. Stay tuned as our host breaks down the lineups, stats, and play of the team. It's not all bad, though! In the second half, Nick shares the positive experiences of attending the match with his boys. He ends the show recapping the USMNT's loss to Canada over the weekend (Ok maybe it was all bad.) Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! This weekend, the Chicago Fire welcome another struggling Eastern Conference team in DC United. In this episode, Nick highlights the top players from DC and how the Men in Red should approach the game from a tactical standpoint. The Fire could win, the Fire should win, but they'll need to come out fast and shut down Christian Benteke before they actually win. In the second half of the show, Nick discusses the departure of Carlos Bocanegra from his role in the Atlanta United front office. Despite putting together a champtionship team for the Five Stripes, Bocanegra couldn't never replicate the success of the 2018 season and is now out of a job. Do we want in him back in Chicago with his forer club? Stay tuned to find out Nick's thoughts. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube

Hey, soccer fans! The Chicago Fire marketing team called it the hottest night of the summer, I call it an embarrassment. The Men in Red looked to put up a fight against Inter Miami, but an own-goal by Tobias Salquist quickly changed the mood, and the home team was never really in the game after that. Tune in for our host's commentary of the goals, the statistics, and the impact of this match on the Chicago Fire's season. In the second half of the show, Nick reviews the USMNT roster for upcoming friendlies against Canada and New Zealand. At the helm will be interim manager Mikey Varas, as US Soccer is still finalizing the deal to bring in Mauricio Pochettino, and this looks to be another round of player evaluation rather than fine-tuning. Tune in and join the conversation! Make sure you like & subscribe, rate & review, and keep growing the show. Follow the Fire on SportSpyder. Join the conversation on social media: Twitter - Facebook - Instagram - YouTube