Chicago Fire vs. Columbus Crew prediction, odds, MLS Cup first round picks [11/7/2026]

Chicago and Columbus will lock horns in the MLS Cup first round at Soldier Field on Saturday, with kickoff at 4:00 PM ET.

Dimers' proven MLS model projects Chicago as the most likely winner in this Chicago vs. Columbus prediction.

This article offers a closer look at Saturday's match, including best bets and picks.

Chicago Fire vs. Columbus Crew prediction and odds

Using innovative machine learning and statistical analysis, we have re-simulated the outcome of Saturday's MLS game between Chicago and Columbus, forming part of our MLS predictions coverage.

Our famous predictive model suggests a 51.2% chance of Chicago winning, a 27.1% chance for Columbus, and a 21.7% chance of a draw. Additionally, the over/under total of 2.5 goals has a 66.2% chance of going over., according to our model.

Latest betting odds

We have researched the best MLS odds in America for this game, which are listed here:

• Moneyline: Columbus +285, Chicago -108
• Total Goals: Over/Under 2.5 (-208/+194)

All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.

Model picks and best bet for MLS Cup first round

After matching our probabilities against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets in this matchup. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:

• Moneyline: Columbus @ +285 via Polymarket
• Total Goals: Under 2.5 @ +194 via Polymarket

According to our best MLS bets, the top play to make on this game is Columbus to win.

These picks are based on our probabilities matched against the implied probabilities from the current available odds.

Correct score projections

The top three most likely final scores, according to our model, are listed below, with a 2-1 Chicago win being the most probable:

• Chicago 2-1 Columbus (9.3% probability)
• Chicago 1-1 Columbus (9.3%)
• Chicago 2-2 Columbus (6.6%)

Game info & kickoff details

Saturday's MLS matchup between Chicago and Columbus in MLS at Soldier Field is scheduled to start at 4:00 PM ET.

• Who: Chicago Fire vs. Columbus Crew
• Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
• Time: 4:00 PM ET/1:00 PM PT
• Venue: Soldier Field

Conclusion

According to our computer model, Chicago has a 51.2% win probability on Saturday, Columbus has a 27.1% win probability, and there is a 21.7% chance that the game will end in a draw.

Additional tools and information for betting safely can be found in our Responsible Gambling hub.

This article's predictions and probabilities are generated by Dimers' proprietary MLS prediction model. Our editorial team reviews the resulting content for accuracy and presentation before publication.