Chicago Fire FC have qualified for the Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs, clinching their spot on Saturday. 

With four regular-season matches left, the Fire are fourth in the Eastern Conference (48 points; 14W-10L-6D).

Chicago have made the playoffs in both seasons under head coach and director of football Gregg Berhalter, whose stated mission is to bring silverware back to the Windy City ahead of opening the club's new stadium, McDonald's Park, in 2028.

Star players

Chicago brought in several high-profile players this season, most notably Polish icon Robert Lewandowski. The former Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona striker has tallied 6g/4a since arriving in July.

Meanwhile, Mbekezeli Mbokazi has compiled a Best XI-caliber season at center back. The South African international also logged a breakout performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer.

Two-time MLS All-Star Philip Zinckernagel (6g/10a) and top scorer Maren Haile-Selassie (11g/10a) further boost the attack. Homegrown goalkeeper Chris Brady, who represented the United States at the 2026 World Cup, anchors the defense.

Can the 1998 MLS Cup champs and four-time US Open Cup winners go all the way and lift the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy in December?

Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs

MLS Cup presented by Audi will be played Dec. 18, while the playoffs begin Nov. 18 with Wild Card matches.

• Seeds 1-7 in each conference qualify for the Round One Best-of-3 Series.
• Seeds 8-9 in each conference qualify for the Wild Card matches.
• Seeds 10-15 in each conference do not qualify for the postseason.

All games can be viewed on Apple TV.