Match Preview: FMFC Visits Omaha

August 25, 2022 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Forward Madison FC News Release

Forward Madison FC is set to travel to Papillion, Nebraska to take on Union Omaha on Wednesday, August 31st at 7:00 pm CT. The crucial match will feature two squads who are both making a strong push for USL League One playoff berths. The last time FMFC took on Omaha, on July 26th, the club’s tied 0-0 in Madison, WI.

The Flamingos head to Nebraska following a 0-0 draw against North Carolina FC at home. Eric Leonard and the whole Pink and Blue defense played strongly against North Carolina as they shut down the NCFC attack, holding them to only two shots on target. Next up, after taking on Union Omaha, the ‘Gos will stay on the road to conclude a two-game road trip in Greenville, South Carolina. Forward Madison FC will battle the league’s top-seeded Greenville Triumph SC on Saturday, September 3rd at 6:00 pm CT.

Union Omaha enters Wednesday’s match following a contest against the Richmond Kickers on Saturday, August 27th. After they take on FMFC, Omaha will welcome Chattanooga for a match on September 3rd.

Coaches and USL League One 2022 Records

Union Omaha (8-2-10)

Head Coach: Jay Mims

Forward Madison FC (7-5-10)

Head Coach: Matt Glaeser

Key Players to Watch:

Forward Madison

Eric Leonard: After playing in his 100th match in the Pink and Blue last Wednesday, Leonard has proven why he’s one of the best defenders in the league. The Illinois native is leading his squad in almost every key defensive statistic: clearances (80), blocks (16), interceptions (40). Leonard also has the fourth most clearances in the league while he has the tenth most passes made in the league (1019). Expect the 26-year-old to lead his squad into this important match against Omaha.

Raiko Arozarena: The Cuban goalie has made his presence felt ever since joining the squad early in July. Arozarena has allowed five goals in eight total matches, while he’s recorded four clean sheets in those eight matches. In his last match against Omaha, Arozarena recorded a clean sheet while he faced 11 total shots. Expect the 25-year-old keeper to continue to be a force protecting the goal.

Mikey Maldonado: All season, the 24-year-old has been a threat creating chances in the opponents’ half of the field. Maldonado managed to make a few good runs against North Carolina FC, although he couldn’t create a chance good enough for the ‘Mingos to score. The midfielder leads his squad in chances created (33), so expect the San…