Chicago Fire: Breaking down the Group B encounters

2. An unpredictable encounter

After facing the Sounders, the Chicago Fire must contend with the San Jose Earthquakes, which could be a real-life example of that one meme where the two Spiderman’s are pointing at one another, such is the shared inconsistency of both teams.

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The Fire went from a top-three team in the league in 2017 to bottom dwellers the following year. The Earthquakes, meanwhile, went through an up-and-down 2019 campaign, winning six out of seven games over the summer before ending the year with six straight losses.

Both teams started the 2020 regular season with a draw and a loss, though the Earthquakes’ performances were far more worrisome than the more competitive showings the Fire provided. Given their inconsistency and the extended break, however, it is hard to predict what exactly will happen when they do face off against each other on July 19th.

It seems the only thing that is guaranteed is chaos. Chicago and San Jose both prefer to push forward instead of sitting back. They press high, play hard, and sometimes allow chances at the other end. It is unpredictable, yes, but it could mean an exciting game is on the cards.