Red Bull NY vs Chicago Fire: Saturday Night Showdown at SI Stadium
Red Bulls vs. Chicago Fire: Your Complete Guide to Saturday’s Big Match
What’s Happening?
Red Bull New York is hosting Chicago Fire FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium on Saturday, August 22 for a special Fireworks Night presented by Audi!
Think of it like a neighborhood block party, but with professional soccer players, fireworks, and two teams battling for important points in the standings.
Match Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Teams | Red Bull New York vs. Chicago Fire FC |
| Date | Saturday, August 22 |
| Time | 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff |
| Venue | Sports Illustrated Stadium |
| Special Event | Fireworks Night presented by Audi |
| Current Records | Red Bulls: 7-9-4 (25 pts) • Fire: 11-6-2 (35 pts) |
Important Points to Remember
- Chicago Fire is currently higher in the standings (35 points vs 25 points)
- This is the 73rd all-time meeting between these teams
- Fireworks show after the game — stick around!
- Part of a three-match homestand for the Red Bulls
How to Watch & Listen
You’ve got options! Whether you’re on your couch or on the go:
Apple TV (MLS Season Pass)
- Coverage starts: 7:30 p.m. ET (Walmart Saturday Showdown)
- English broadcast: Steve Cangialosi (play-by-play) + Danny Higginbotham (analyst)
- Spanish broadcast: Diego Pessolano (play-by-play) + Daniel Chapela (analyst)
Red Bulls Radio (FREE!)
- Starts at: 7:00 p.m. ET with "Countdown to Kickoff" presented by Toyota
- Hosts: Matt Harmon and Steve Jolley
- Where to listen:
- Red Bull New York app
- RedBullNewYork.com
- Language: English only
History Between These Teams
This is a classic rivalry with lots of history:
By the Numbers
- 73rd all-time regular season meeting
- Chicago leads the series: 33 wins – 23 losses – 16 draws
- At Red Bulls home: New York is 16-14-5 against Chicago
Recent Meetings (Last 5)
| Result | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Red Bulls 3–1 Win | May 9 | Soldier Field (Chicago) |
| [Other results not specified in source] |
Fun Fact: In that May 9th win, wingers Jorge Ruvalcaba and Cade Cowell both scored!
Player Spotlight: Dylan Nealis
Dylan Nealis (from Massapequa, N.Y.) is a defender to watch:
- 2 career assists against Chicago Fire FC
- Got his first-ever MLS assist vs. Chicago on July 17, 2021
- 10 total assists in his Red Bulls career
- 1 assist away from tying Michael Murillo for 6th most assists by a defender in franchise history
- Tied for 4th in MLS in aerial duels won (50!)
Translation: He’s really good at winning headers and setting up teammates!
What’s Next for the Red Bulls?
After Saturday’s match, the homestand continues:
| Match | Date | Time | TV |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Philadelphia Union | Saturday, August 29 | 7:30 p.m. ET | Apple TV (English & Spanish) |
Same place, same time, same channels — mark your calendars!
Quick Summary
- Red Bulls vs. Chicago Fire — Saturday, August 22 at 7:30 p.m. ET
- Fireworks Night! — Stay after the match for the show
- Watch on Apple TV (English or Spanish) or listen free on Red Bulls Radio
- Chicago leads the all-time series, but Red Bulls won last meeting 3-1
- Dylan Nealis is climbing the franchise assist records for defenders
- Next home game: August 29 vs. Philadelphia Union
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a subscription to watch on Apple TV?
Yes — this requires MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. However, Red Bulls Radio is completely free!
2. What time should I arrive for Fireworks Night?
Gates typically open 90 minutes before kickoff (around 6:00 p.m.). Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere and grab good seats for the fireworks!
3. Who are the announcers for the Spanish broadcast?
Diego Pessolano (play-by-play) and Daniel Chapela (analyst) will call the game in Spanish on Apple TV.
4. How many assists does Dylan Nealis need to tie the franchise record for defenders?
Just 1 more assist to tie Michael Murillo for 6th place all-time among Red Bulls defenders.
5. Is this a must-win game for the Red Bulls?
With 25 points (7-9-4), every point matters as they chase a playoff spot. A win against a top team like Chicago (35 points) would be a huge confidence booster!
Enjoy the match, enjoy the fireworks, and go Red Bulls!