2026 Match Preview

MATCH PREVIEW: 6.13 MAD v ACB

SNAPSHOT: MAD v ACB

• Saturday, June 13 
• 7:00 PM CST Kickoff
• Breese Stevens Field

WATCH LIVE

• Stream Here
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC    
• Get Tickets Here

USL League One Record

MAD: 4-1-4

ACB: 4-3-4

SETTING THE SCENE

After spending some time back on the road, Forward Madison FC returns home to Breese Stevens Field to take on Athletic Club Boise on Saturday night. The ‘Mingos will look to snap a two-game losing streak and secure all three points after a 2-0 loss to Indy Eleven last weekend. With a home-heavy stretch ahead, Forward Madison is well-positioned to build momentum and get back to winning ways in front of a lively home crowd.

LAST MATCH RECAP – MAD v IND

A rotated Forward Madison starting XI almost delivered a perfect start in Indiana, with Karamoko nearly putting the ‘Mingos ahead in the opening 15 seconds. Indy also showed attacking urgency early, with Quinn stringing together several runs in the first 10 minutes. In the 12’, Williams made a promising run, cutting in front of a trailing defender and drawing a yellow card for Torres to give Indy a dangerous free kick opportunity. Following Forward Madison’s initial pressure, the play settled into a fairly even matchup. Indy saw a strong chance in the 18’ when O’Brien delivered a ball into the box that found Williams, but Manske came up big to hold the score at 0-0. A minute later, Manske was called on once again with a near-post stop following a nice combination play by Indy. The remainder of the half saw plenty of back-and-forth action, and in the 28’, Manske showed up for the ‘Mingos once again to deny a shot fired on target. Another opportunity showed up for Forward Madison in the 30’ after a buildup that started with Torres, but Romanshyn was unable to convert. Two minutes later, the ‘Mingos held possession just outside Indy’s box for an extended period but could not find an opening to break through. Rendon had a look in the 35’, but Toure made an excellent tackle to keep out the danger. Toure then nearly put Forward Madison ahead in the 40’, but his shot went just wide. Moments later, Indy responded with a quality chance, but Manske produced a diving save to keep the match level. After an evenly contested first half, neither side was able to find the back of the net, leaving the score tied 0-0 at the break, just as it was when the teams faced each other last season. 

With 45’ left in this Prinx Tires USL Cup match, Forward Madison looked to find a breakthrough. But it was Indy that struck first. Craig gave the hosts the lead in the 48’, unleashing a header off a set piece to make the score 1-0. As rain began to fall, Indy built off that momentum and continued to apply high pressure against the ‘Mingos. Indy doubled its advantage in the 54’ when O’Brien pounced on a loose ball in the box and put it away to make it 2-0. Despite the deficit, Manske continued to tally several impressive reaction saves on Indy’s corner kicks, including a phenomenal stop in the 68’. Forward Madison’s best opportunity came in the 64’, but a fresh-legged Gebhard was unable to convert. Manske was called into action again in the 76’, leaving his line to prevent another dangerous chance for Indy. Moments later, the ‘Mingos created one of their closest chances of the second half when McCamy got a hold of the ball in the box, but failed to capitalize. Castro generated another chance for Madison in the 81’, but his shot steered just wide. In the 83’, the ‘Mingos saw a spell of possession in the attacking third, but Indy’s back line held firm. With gas still left in his tank, Manske made a world-class save in the 84’ to deny a powerful strike by Williams right at the net. Two minutes into stoppage time, Manske responded one final time to cap his outstanding performance on the road. 

Indy finished with 13 shots on target and controlled much of the second half, but Manske’s strong defensive presence held the score at 2-0 in favor of the hosts.

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the ‘Mingos take on Athletic Club Boise: 

• Closing Down at Close Range: Of Athletic Club Boise’s 17 total goals this season, 12 have come from inside the box. The ‘Mingos will need to maintain shape and discipline to limit dangerous chances at close range for the visitors.
• First to Strike: The ‘Mingos nearly found a perfect opening in Indianapolis last weekend; however, Indy Eleven ended up netting the first goal of the match. Facing a deficit, Forward Madison struggled to mount a comeback. The Flamingos have found success when they grab an early lead, making a fast start crucial in Saturday’s home match.
• No Place Like Home: After a spirited home victory against Corpus Christi on May 29, the ‘Mingos have the opportunity to replicate that performance and deliver another statement result at Breese Stevens Field.

MATCH PREVIEW: 6.6 MAD @ IND

SNAPSHOT: MAD v IND

• Saturday, June 6 
• 6:00 PM CST Kickoff
• Michael A. Carroll Stadium

WATCH LIVE

• Stream Here
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC

Prinx Tires USL Cup Record 

MAD: 0-2-0

IND: 0-1-1

SETTING THE SCENE

Forward Madison FC continue its road stint to take on Indy Eleven for an exciting Prinx Tires USL Cup League match-up in Indianapolis on June 6. In a tough road contest against Greenville the last time out, the ‘Mingos lost an early lead after the Triumph capitalized off a chance in the box in the 14’. Forward couldn’t connect on its own chances but held off the rest of Greenville’s advances to close out the match, 1-0. Against the Indy Eleven on Saturday, the ‘Mingos will look to hold steady on defense to hold off offensive pushes from Indianapolis while working to move the ball up the field and create more dangerous scoring opportunities of their own.

LAST MATCH RECAP – MAD v GVL

Forward Madison kicked off against Greenville under full sun in the first-ever match at GE Vernova Park! Forward were tested early by a well-placed corner delivered by former Flamingo, Devin Boyce, but were able to thwart the effort and send the blow glancing. Following the corner, the Mingos went on the attack and stayed on it with their first real chance coming in the 13’ off of a well-delivered corner of their own. It was Greenville that was first to strike, however, with Liadi finding the back of the net in the 14’. FMFC had another big chance in the 22’ when Annor Gyamfi found himself 1-v-1 with Greenville keeper, Amal Knight, but was unable to slip the ball past him. Castro sent in a beautiful ball into the box in the 38’ that was inches away from connection with Annor Gyamfi’s head to level. Gebhard put one on frame in the 41’ but sent it straight into Knight’s waiting arms. Despite leading in possession and shots on goal, the ‘Gos headed into the break a goal down. 

Greenville had the first big chance of the second half in the 51’ when a shot from Herrera went blazing over the bar. FMFC had another great chance when Kevin Carmichael connected with a ball in the box but sent it inches wide. The Mingos looked to jumpstart their offense in the 60’ with three sets of fresh legs entering the match. Forward had a huge chance in the 80’ when Kanyane ripped a set piece shot outside of the box that curled perfectly into the frame but was punched away by Knight. Karamoko took a shot in the 86’ but it lifted just over the top corner. Harms scooped up a shot in the 90’ to keep the match within reach in the dying moments. Despite a flurry of opportunities for the ‘Gos late in the game, Forward were unable to claw their way back tonight. The birds ended a goal down at the final whistle. 

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the ‘Mingos take on the Indy Eleven: 

• Holding Off the Volume: With Greenville’s early goal setting the tone in Wednesday’s match, the ‘Mingos will look to hold down the defensive end and limit breakaways from Indy. Goalkeeper JT Harms will look to continue holding off the volume in the net during Prinx Tires USL Cup matches, as he currently sits third overall in saves in Cup rankings with nine. 
• Converting Opportunities into Tallies: The ‘Mingos continued to feed scoring opportunities into play against the Greenville Triumph, but ultimately failed to convert. Big chances on net came from players across the field — including Stephen Annor Gyamfi, Kevin Carmichael and Hakim Karamoko — that ultimately fell just wide of the goal. As Forward Madison searches for a win against Indy, the ‘Mingos will look to turn up the heat on offense and convert shots on goal to tallies on the scoreboard. 
• A Contest in Prinx Tires Cup Play : The ‘Mingos matchup against the Indy Eleven marks both teams third match of the Prinx Tires USL Cup this season. Both the ‘Mingos and the Eleven hunt for their first win in cup contention after holding  0-2-0 and 0-1-1 records through the first two matches, respectively. 

MATCH PREVIEW: 5.29 MAD v CCFC

SNAPSHOT: MAD v CCFC

• Friday, May 29th 
• 6:00 PM CST Kickoff
• Breese Stevens Field

WATCH LIVE

• Stream Here
• Get Tickets Here 
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC

USL League One Record 

MAD: 3-1-3

CCFC: 0-5-4

SETTING THE SCENE

After a resilient performance on the road in Charlotte, Forward Madison FC return home with momentum under its belt to face Corpus Christi FC. The ‘Mingos showcased their attacking potential against Charlotte Independence, striking first to gain an early—yet short-lived—lead. Now, the focus shifts to converting that energy into results. Back on their new home turf, Madison will look to claim all three points and secure a win at Breese Stevens Field against the Sharks, who are still searching for their first victory.

LAST MATCH RECAP – CLT v MAD

In a rainy road matchup in North Carolina, Forward Madison FC battled Charlotte Independence but ultimately fell 3-1 in a match defined by early intensity and missed opportunities. Charlotte came out aggressive, controlling possession and creating dangerous runs in the opening minutes. Despite that pressure, it was Forward Madison who struck first. In the 14th minute, Stephen Annor Gyamfi found the back of the net, giving the ‘Mingos a 1-0 lead. 

The lead was short-lived. Just three minutes later, Alvarez responded for Charlotte, leveling the match in the 17th minute after a shot slipped through JT Harms’ hands. The Jacks continued to press, and while Harms came up with a key save in the 18th minute, Charlotte’s attack remained dangerous. Their persistence paid off in the 24th minute when Manzinga capitalized to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. Forward Madison had their chances to regain the lead. In the 21st minute, Ryan Carmichael battled through a triple team with impressive footwork but couldn’t quite break through. Annor nearly grabbed his second in the 37th minute, hitting the post with an open net opportunity. Late in the half, Gebhard tested the keeper with back-to-back shots in the 40th and 41st minutes. In stoppage time (48’), Torres delivered a free kick that found Carmichael, whose shot came close to leveling the score before the break but went just wide. 

Coming out of halftime, Forward Madison shifted the momentum and controlled much of the second half. Gebhard made a strong run in the 58th minute, followed by a narrowly missed shot from Torres in the 59th. Castro added another attempt in the 60th, but couldn’t convert. The ‘Mingos kept pushing, generating consistent chances and shots on target.

Charlotte scored another goal in the 88th minute from Lyons. Any hopes of a late comeback were dashed in stoppage time when Roman Torres was shown a second yellow card, reducing Madison to 10 men. The match ended 3-1 in favor of Charlotte, though Madison will look to build on their second-half momentum heading into their next match.

“I thought we played a good game and were a bit unlucky,” said Forward Madison FC Head Coach and Technical Director, Matt Glaeser. “The guys worked hard. If we continue to work and improve, some of these bounces and decisions will go our way. We’re excited to get back home and play a league game at Breese next week.”

“[It was a] tough battle tonight and [I’m] proud of the way the team competed from start to finish,” Annor Gyamfi said. “We showed resilience, created chances, and kept fighting until the final whistle.”

“[It was a] tough game, but we keep our heads up and keep learning,” said Kevin Carmichael. “We all have a belief in each other that we will come together, and we look forward to getting our first home win next weekend.” 

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the ‘Mingos take on Corpus Christi FC 

• Making Home-Turf Count: With another strong crowd expected at Breese Stevens Field Saturday night, the ‘Mingos have the opportunity to feed off the energy from their supporters and deliver a statement result.
• Turning Chances Into Goals: The ‘Mingos created several opportunities in Charlotte, with one near miss finding the post and the keeper being tested on numerous occasions. The next step is converting the chances they’re already creating.
• Feeding the Annor Momentum: Stephen Annor has established his role as one of Forward Madison’s most dangerous attacking threats, with his pace, physicality, and proven goal-scoring. Getting him involved early could help the ‘Mingos grab another early lead against Corpus Christi.

MATCH PREVIEW: 5.9 AV V MAD

SNAPSHOT: AV v MAD

• Saturday, May 9th 
• 9:30PM CST Kickoff
• Lancaster Municipal Stadium

WATCH LIVE

• Stream Here – ESPN+
• Official Watch Party– Forward Madison FC
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC

USL League One Record 

MAD: 3-1-1

AV: 0-2-4

SETTING THE SCENE

Forward Madison heads out for their final stop on a long uninterrupted road trip this Saturday as they take on AV Alta FC. The Mingos are coming fresh off of a big late win in Sarasota with positive momentum surging. With three players scoring in their last match, Madison has now had six different goal scorers in league play. With threats coming from all angles, they’ve made themselves a formidable opponent on offense. Conversely, AV Alta have yet to find a win in six matches played this season. Forward will look to lean into their momentum, find the result and bring home all three points from California before finally playing on home turf next weekend.  

LAST MATCH RECAP – SAR v MAD

Forward started off on the back foot with Sarasota winning two corners within the first five minutes of play. Former Flamingo, Garrett McLaughlin, nearly gave Paradise the lead with a header off of a corner that went just wide. Forward had their first real chance in the 19’ with a well-placed corner from McCamy that the Paradise keeper, Sutton, was able to punch away. Madison found the breakthrough in the 24’ with a goal from Mr. Madison, Derek Gebhard. The Mingos’ lead was short-lived as Bolanos leveled things in the 27’ for Paradise. The half ended level at the break. 

Sarasota had the first big chance of the second half in the 53’ with a shot that clipped off the bar. Forward nearly found a second in the 54’ with a header from Annor Gyamfi that was sent just wide. Ryan Carmichael had a one-v-one opportunity with the keeper in the 61’ but was denied by Sutton. Forward stunned Sarasota with an unlikely goal in the 83’ from Turner Humphrey who redirected a volley from Joshua Bolma. Shortly after, the Mingos put the nail in the coffin with a third goal from Bolma in the 86’ set up brilliantly by Annor Gyamfi. Forward took the late win, all three points and some much-needed positive momentum back home with them from Florida. 

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the Mingos take on AV Alta FC

• Hitting their stride: It’s safe to say the team is starting to find their form coming off of another big win in Sarasota. Now showcasing their ability to score in open play rather than just their red hot set pieces, FMFC is starting to look like an all around offensive threat.
• Home away from home: Forward have shown tremendous resilience having an unusually long away stretch to start the season. However, this hasn’t stopped them from finding results. The ‘Gos have shown they can show up in any environment and play to win. 
• Mr. Madison: Veteran Flamingo and fan-favorite, Derek Gebhard, opened his 2026 scoring account last weekend. With his first of the season under his belt, have the flood gates been opened for the Mingo’s all-time-leading goal-scorer?

MATCH PREVIEW: 4.25 LEX V MAD

SNAPSHOT: #LEX v MAD

• Saturday, April 25th 
• 6PM CST Kickoff
• Lexington SC Stadium 

WATCH LIVE

• Stream Here – ESPN+
• Official Watch Party– The Green Room Public House 
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC

Prinx Tires USL Cup Record 

MAD: 0-0-0

LEX: 0-0-0

SETTING THE SCENE

Forward Madison gears up for another road trip this weekend as they head to Lexington for the first round of the Prinx Tires USL Cup. Madison enters this match after collecting another point on the road in New York last weekend. The Mingos have been finding the back of the net often this year and will look to bring their offensive dynamism, particularly on set pieces, to Kentucky as they take on the USL Championship club.  

LAST MATCH RECAP – NYC v MAD

Forward Madison FC set the tone early in their match against the New York Cosmos, applying relentless pressure and controlling possession throughout the first half. With Jackson Castro earning a spot in the starting lineup, the Flamingos leaned into their attacking identity, using fast movements to create chances and dictate the pace of play. 

Despite Madison’s fast start, the Cosmos found moments to push back, forcing a key save from goalkeeper, JT Harms, in the 12’ to keep the match scoreless. The breakthrough came in the 22’, when Geni Kanyane delivered a perfect corner kick that curled directly into the net for a stunning Olimpico. Momentum shifted in the 32’ when Madison was reduced to ten men following a red card to Kanyane, but the Flamingos responded immediately. Just two minutes later, Ryan Carmichael doubled the lead with an incredible long-range strike, a true golazo. Harms followed with another strong save in the 37’ to preserve the advantage. Even down a man, Madison continued to push forward, highlighted by an incredible solo run from Kevin Carmichael, who weaved past three defenders with composure and skill. The Cosmos nearly found a breakthrough in the 44th minute, but Madison’s defense held firm, going into halftime with a 2-0 lead. 

The second half shifted quickly as the Cosmos capitalized on pressure and a defensive miscue to score twice and level the match. With Madison down to ten men, New York began to control possession, generating multiple corner kicks and dangerous chances on goal as they looked to complete the comeback. Despite the pressure, the Flamingos continued to fight for a winner. Claudel N’Goubou nearly made the difference right off the bench, twice finding dangerous positions, but both chances were ruled offside. After a hard-fought second half, the match finished in a 2–2 draw, sending the Mingos home from New York with a point on the road. 

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the Mingos take on Lexington SC in the first round of the Prinx Tires USL Cup. 

• Set Piece Kings: Forward has been red hot from set pieces, already scoring three from the corner this year. Madison will try to continue to capitalize on their set piece precision. 
• Dangerous Subs: Forward’s bench has proven to run deep this season. With playmakers waiting in the wings, Madison is primed to shift the match narrative at a moment’s notice. 
• Club Cohesion: With an almost entirely new roster, Forward has had to build up team cohesion from scratch and is really starting to hit their stride. The Mingos are only becoming more dangerous on offense as the squad starts to gel. They’ll take this form into Lexington as they look to bag their first win of their cup campaign.

MATCH PREVIEW: 4.11 OMA v MAD

SNAPSHOT: #OMA v MAD

• Saturday, April 11th 
• 4PM CST Kickoff
• Morrison Stadium 

WATCH LIVE

• Stream Here – ESPN+
• Official Watch Party– Forward Club
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC

USL League One Record

MAD: 2-0-0

OMA: 3-1-0

SETTING THE SCENE

With a new playing surface being installed at Breese Stevens Field, Forward Madison FC have spent the entirety of the 2026 season on the road so far. This weekend’s match in Omaha will mark the third away league match for the Mingos, who remain one of only two USL League One clubs with an undefeated record this year. With road wins in two difficult away settings in Naples and Knoxville, Forward have made an early statement that they won’t be brushed off easily when they come to town. Heading into another challenging environment against a strong team, the Flamingo’s game plan will be the same–be hard to play against. Forward will look to shut down options for Union Omaha, break hard on the attack, and come away with another three points on the road. 

LAST MATCH RECAP – NAP v MAD

This match started late after a short weather delay in Florida as FMFC faced off with FC Naples and former Mingos, Aiden Mesias and Chris Garcia. Forward looked strong to start, maintaining possession and comfortably controlling play. Gebhard had a beautiful look in the 9’ but was denied by Delgado. Edwards sent a dangerous ball into the box in the 12’ but couldn’t connect with another Mingo. Forward struck first in the 20’ with Annor Gyamfi burying a header off of a perfect delivery from the corner by Roman Torres. Harms kept Forward’s sheet clean with an unbelievable one-v-one save in the 33’. Annor Gyamfi nearly found his second in the 39’ on another gorgeous corner kick delivery but it broke just wide. As we hit the 41’, Forward’s Derek Gebhard hit his 10,000 USL League One minute and added another milestone to his illustrious career. The Mingos had to play some impressive defense as the match neared the halfway point with Naples ramping up their attack. FMFC nearly found another off a corner in the 47’ but it was punched away by Delgado. It was all birds at the break with FMFC up a goal on FC Naples at half. 

The second half began with some technical difficulties with the broadcast being lost through the 53’ but the scoreline remained 1-0 Mingos once the feed was restored. The Flamingos narrowly skirted danger in the 75’ as a deep shot from Naples went just wide. Annor Gyamfi fired a long range rocket in the 86’ but it was dealt with by Delgado. The Mingos kept their heads and continued their defensive dominance through the late pressure from Naples. Harms made two outstanding back-to-back stops in the 89’ to keep the ‘Gos on top. Harms continued his clinical night with another unbelievable save in the 91’. Forward Madison held on up to the final whistle and picked up a massive three points on the road against top of the table, FC Naples. 

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the Mingos take on Union Omaha

• Out of Harms Way: Forward Madison FC Goalkeeper, JT Harms, had a legendary showing in his last match against FC Naples. He secured the clean sheet for the Mingos after swarms of sensational saves, boosting his save percentage to 87.5 on the season so far. Look to him to keep his hot streak alive in Omaha. 
• Sharp Shooter: With two of his five shots finding the back of the net, Stephen Annor Gyamfi will be one to watch in Saturday’s match. Seeming to consistently put himself in the right place at the right time, Annor Gyamfi will look to add more tallies to his goals column on Saturday. 
• How May I Assist You?: Roman Torres has already notched an assist and a Team of the Week inclusion in both FMFC matches so far this year. With his consistent deliveries on set pieces, look to him to add to his goal contributions in Morrison Stadium. 

MATCH PREVIEW: 3.28 NAP v MAD

SNAPSHOT: #NAPvMAD

• Saturday, March, 28th 
• 6PM CST Kickoff
• Paradise Coast Sports Complex 

WATCH LIVE

• Stream Here – ESPN+
• Official Watch Party – Forward Club
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC

USL League One Record

MAD: 1-0-0

NAP: 2-0-1

SETTING THE SCENE

Forward Madison FC began their 2026 USL League One season in Knoxville where they pulled off an incredible upset defeating the 2025 League Champions, One Knoxville SC, in a 2-1 victory. Following their win in Knoxville, the squad faced numerous travel complications with canceled flights and inclement weather preventing the Mingos from returning home before arriving in Michigan to take on the Flint City Bucks in Round One of the U.S. Open Cup. Forward put up a good fight, but were unable to subdue a young and hungry roster of all new Bucks signings out to prove themselves and secure the cupset. Now with the rest and training needed following their long road trip, the Mingos are refreshed and ready to take on the undefeated FC Naples in Florida this Saturday as they re-enter league play. Forward will need to dig-in to get things going offensively against a red hot Naples defense that has already put up two clean sheet performances in three games. 

LAST MATCH RECAP – FCB v MAD

This match started off with lightning pace as both teams set a high tempo from the opening whistle. Flint City came out chippy, with a myriad of fouls committed within the first ten minutes of play. The Bucks struck first in the 13’ when an awkward deflection resulted in an FMFC own goal. The Bucks nearly found a second in the 16’ with a shot going just wide of the goal. Madison had a good look in the 28’ when Annor got his head to the ball in front of the goal after a beautiful cross but sent it over the bar. Madison was able to slow the tempo toward the end of the first half, controlling more possession in a much more composed style of play. Kanyane sent in a dangerous cross in the 40’ that no Mingo could find the end of, but did result in an FMFC corner. The corner was well delivered, but again, fruitless for the Flamingos. The Mingos almost found an equalizer in the 44’ but it was sent over the bar by the Bucks keeper. The Flamingos headed into the locker rooms trailing 1-0 at the end of the first half. 

Forward came out swinging in the second half with a shot in the 48’ that went just wide.Edwards had another big chance in the 48’ with a header that was also just off the mark. Forward seemed to have scored in the 51’ after a tap-in from Gebhard, but the ball was ruled out of play. Edwards ripped a shot in the 53’ but it went well wide. After absorbing pressure from the Mingos, Flint City found a second goal through their substitute, Lopez, in the 63’ minute. Forward continued to control a majority of possession, creating plenty of chances from set pieces earned from outside the box. However, they were unable to convert. Humphrey saw a late sending off in stoppage time before the game came to a close.

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the Mingos take on FC Naples

• Cleated Rivalries: We all know that taking on former teammates can make for a heated matchup. FMFC heads into Naples to face old friends, Aiden Mesias and a red-hot Chris Garcia. Forward will need to meet these two head-on and find a way to shut down the former Mingos in order to make a statement of their own. 
• Rested and Recharged: After their difficult week on the road, the Mingos were able to get some much-needed rest after finally making it back to Madison this week. With their batteries recharged and the squad able to return to their usual training schedule, they should be locked-in for this Saturday’s away match. 
• Mr. Madison: Gebhard is set to hit his 10k regular season minute milestone over the weekend. With only 41 minutes to go to hit the landmark, look to him to bring the energy and experience the Club needs as he sets the example for what success in USL League One looks like. 

MATCH PREVIEW: 3.14 KNX V MAD

SNAPSHOT: #KNXvMAD

• Saturday, March 14th, 2026
• 6pm CST Kickoff
• Covenant Health Park 

WATCH LIVE

• Watch Party 
• In-game updates: @ForwardMSNFC

2026 USL LEAGUE ONE RECORD

MAD: 0-0-0

KNX: 1-0-0

SETTING THE SCENE

Forward Madison FC begin their 2026 season with a tough matchup against last season’s Player’s Shield Winners and 2025 USL League One Champions, One Knoxville SC. This away match marks the first of a seven-game road trip for the boys and is a true test for the Mingos after coming off a successful pre-season. Knox already has one win under their belt, having bagged a 3-2 victory over Westchester SC on the road last weekend, with one goal coming from former FMFC Midfielder, John Murphy Jr.. Forward will have to replicate their pre-season successes and look to the youth and physicality of their re-loaded roster to come away with a W in this first match of the season. 

A FRESH YEAR, A FRESH START

Forward Madison FC has seen major changes already this season. With new faces on the technical staff with the additions of Assistant Coach, Patrick Nyarko, and Sporting Director, Matt Cairns, as well as a fully re-loaded roster of new players aside from lone returning Forward, Derek Gebhard, FMFC will have a totally new feel in 2026. This year’s squad is looking younger, faster and more physical than seasons past, and so far, has already been finding success. With wins against Chicago Fire II and Detroit City FC as well as picking up draws with Minnesota United II and Indy Eleven in pre-season, the Club looks to be headed in a solid direction. After narrowly missing the playoffs last season, these encouraging signs of new life on the pitch can lend hope to a successful 2026 for the ‘Gos.The roster isn’t the only new thing for Forward this year. Breese Stevens Field, home of the Mingos, is undergoing a brand new playing surface installation as the stadium celebrates its 100th anniversary. Though the install has pushed back the FMFC Home Opener and extended the early-season roadtrip, the squad and fans alike have plenty to look forward to at Breese in 2026. Fans can wish the players luck at the Road Trip Send-Off event at Penn Park on Wednesday, March 11th from 5-7pm. 

KEYS TO THE MATCH PRESENTED BY THE BURISH GROUP AT UBS

Check out the UBS Keys to the Match as the Mingos take on One Knox:

• Re-Loaded Squad: The Club is looking at this year’s roster as “re-loaded” rather than “re-built”. With plenty of successes and positives to build off of, adding impressive young talent to an already solid FMFC foundation could mean big success for the Mingos. 
• Mr. Madison: Though the majority of the squad is new, one constant remains: Mr. Madison, Derek Gebhard. Coming off of an incredible 2025 season, look to Gebhard to emerge as a major leader this season in terms of goal contributions and mentorship. 
• Early Success: Though it should be taken with a grain of salt, the pre-season wins against solid opponents inspire a good amount of hope that the Mingos are on the right track to be dangerous on the attack and stalwart in their defense this year.