The 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs are heating up, and all eyes are on Montclair, where the New York Red Bulls II are set to clash with Chicago Fire II in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. The highly anticipated matchup will take place on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at MSU Soccer Park, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. ET. This pivotal game marks another major moment in the Red Bulls II’s pursuit of playoff glory, as the club looks to extend its postseason run and cement its standing among the league’s elite developmental squads.
Fans heading to Montclair can expect a night of high-intensity soccer, with both sides bringing youthful energy and tactical precision to the pitch. The Red Bulls II, known for their aggressive pressing and quick transitions, have spent the season fine-tuning a system built on the same identity as their MLS parent club. Chicago Fire II, meanwhile, enter the semifinals as one of the most balanced teams in the conference, combining technical flair with defensive discipline — a formula that has proven effective throughout their campaign.
The match also highlights the continued success of the Red Bulls’ youth development pipeline. Many players on the Red Bulls II roster have risen through the club’s academy system and are now showcasing their talent on a professional stage, making this playoff run a testament to the organization’s long-term vision for player growth.
The electric atmosphere at MSU Soccer Park adds another layer of excitement. Nestled on the campus of Montclair State University, the venue has become a favorite destination for Red Bulls supporters and local soccer fans alike. To celebrate the team’s playoff push, Montclair State University students will be granted free admission to the match by presenting their student ID at the gate. Additionally, Red Members can claim complimentary tickets, ensuring a packed and passionate crowd under the lights.
For the Red Bulls II, Sunday night’s game is more than just a semifinal — it’s a statement opportunity. Advancing to the conference final would solidify their place among the top programs in MLS NEXT Pro, reflecting years of investment in homegrown talent and the future of New Jersey soccer. The squad’s blend of seasoned young leaders and emerging prospects has made them a formidable force this season, and fans are eager to see if they can carry that momentum through the postseason.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET, and the energy at MSU Soccer Park promises to be unmatched as Red Bulls II and Chicago Fire II battle for a spot in the conference championship. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or new to the excitement of MLS NEXT Pro, this is one match New Jersey soccer fans won’t want to miss.
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