Saturday, September 30, 2023; 5pm CT
Location: Breese Stevens Field, Madison, Wisconsin
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Forward Madison FC plays its second-to-last home game on Saturday, September 30th against 9th-place Lexington SC. The ‘Mingos are still fighting for a playoff position ahead of the final stretch of regular-season games. The match is set to kick off just after 5pm CT.
Coaches and USL League One 2023 Records:
Forward Madison FC (11-9-9)
Head Coach: Matt Glaeser
Lexington SC (7-13-9)
Head Coach: Nacho Novo
Key Players to Watch:
Christian Chaney: After a yellow card suspension sidelined him from the match against Charlotte, Chaney is sure to bring a spark to the FMFC offense. The top goal-scorer will look to create opportunities in the final third, through either making clever passes to the attacking midfielders or taking shots on goal.
Jake Crull: The last time these two teams faced, Crull scored in his squad’s 3-2 victory. While Crull has a strong defensive presence for FMFC, his offensive flair will be just as important on Saturday. Crull has the most passes in USL League One this season, so look for him to initiate counterattacks from the left side.
Nazeem Bartman: Bartman was another goalscorer the last time Forward Madison played Lexington. With five goals and three assists on the season, Bartman’s dynamic and clever style of play will be key for a struggling FMFC offense.
Key Match Up:
FMFC Backline vs. Lexington Striker, Ates Diouf: Last week, Diouf scored two goals in the last 15 minutes of Lexington’s match against Chattanooga. With 14 goals on the season, Diouf is bound to be a challenge for an unpredictable Forward Madison defense. The ‘Mingos will need to be cautious attacking with numbers in the box because if Diouf is handed an opportunity to counter, he will capitalize as he did twice against Chattanooga.
Key to the Match:
Simplicity In The Final Third: Forward Madison had only two shots on target last week against Charlotte. The squad typically plays with a distribution mindset in the final third; however, it will be crucial that the ‘Mingos play more selfishly, especially in the box. With their leading goalscorer available again, look for Chaney to lead the team in shots taken and scoring opportunities created.
Previous and Next Match:
The Flamingos come into this match after a 0-2 loss against Charlotte Independence. Next up, Forward Madison FC travel to play their last away game in Colorado. They’ll face Northern Colorado Hailstorm at 8pm CT. The game will be available on ESPN+ or in the Forward Club for the FMFC Watch Party, presented by Lake Louie Badger Club. RSVP here.
