Saturday, August 19th, 2023; 6pm CT
Location: Tormeta Stadium, Statesboro, Georgia
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After a tough loss at home to One Knoxville SC this past Saturday, Forward Madison look to bounce back on the road against 2022 USL League One champions South Georgia Tormenta FC. Forward Madison FC enters this match in 4th place, while South Georgia enters in 8th. This is the two Club’s third matchup of the season, with the pair splitting the first two matches. Most recently, Forward Madison beat South Georgia 1-0 on June 28th.
Coaches and USL League One 2023 Records:
Forward Madison FC (10-6-6)
Head Coach: Matt Glaeser
South Georgia Tormenta FC (8-11-3)
Head Coach: Ian Cameron
Key Players to Watch:
Christian Chaney: Leading all of USL League One with 62 shots, it’s only a matter of time before Chaney finds the back of the net for the Flamingos again. Chaney’s height and physicality will come into play on Saturday against South Georgia, as the striker will look to gather three points for his side.
Jacob Crull: Defensive solidity and attacking prowess have been consistent for Crull all year. With teams now looking to counter attack Forward Madison, especially off of set pieces, Crull and the defensive line will need to stay compact and disciplined against a good Tormenta front line.
Aiden Mesias: Instrumental in building up attacks, Mesias will look to continue his run of good form on Saturday. While he can play defensively, Mesias’ creativity with the ball will be needed to provide service into Tormenta’s attacking third.
Key Match Up:
Offense vs Offense: Tormenta has the top offense in USL League One, coming into the match with 37 goals compared to FMFC’s 27. Led by former FMFC player Matheus Cassini, Forward Madison’s defense will be tested early and often in this match. The match may come down to passing accuracy, especially in the final third. The two Clubs enter the match just one percentage point away from each other in that category (82% vs 81%).
Key to the Match:
- Dictate the Energy: With no home crowd to boost the ‘Mingos, the energy from the squad on Saturday night must come from within. Looking to leaders like Mich Osmond and Bernd Schipmann, FMFC will look to control possession and play quickly against a Tormenta side that has been susceptible when play is sped up this season.
Previous and Next Match:
The Flamingos come into this match after a 1-2 loss to One Knoxville SC on August 12th. Next up, FMFC stays on the road for a matchup with Central Valley Fuego FC on Saturday, August 26th at 9pm CT.