Introducing League One's in-season cup. This competition brings another level of drama to the year, building our regional rivalries and giving us new hardware to chase.
Starting in 2024, Forward Madison FC will compete in the first-ever USL League One in-season cup competition. Here’s everything you need to know about what the Mingos will be playing for.
What is the USL League One in-season cup?
The cup is an in-season tournament of all 12 clubs in the league, set to begin in 2024. There will be three groups of four clubs each, built to emphasize regional rivalries. Each club will play a total of eight matches in their respective group play – four home and four away.
Each club will play their groupmates twice, plus play an additional two matches against two different clubs from another group, based on geographic proximity. Group play will determine the four teams that will advance to the knockout round. The final will take place on the weekend of September 28-29.
All cup matches will take place during dedicated match weeks throughout the season, starting in April. League play will not take place during these windows.
How does the scoring system work for the cup?
All cup matches that finish in a tie at the end of regulation will feature a penalty shootout. No overtime will be played.
Teams will be awarded:
three (3) points for a win
one (1) point for a draw in regulation time
one (1) extra point for winning a penalty shootout
zero (0) points for a loss
The winners of each group will advance to the four-team knockout round. The fourth team to advance will be the team that scores the most goals and has not won their group.
What’s the prize?
The winning team will receive prize money. The trophy and additional fan-centric cup-related initiatives will be announced soon.
Who and when will Forward Madison FC play?
Forward Madison FC will play in the Central Group with Chattanooga Red Wolves SC, One Knoxville SC, and Lexington SC.
The Mingos play their first cup match on April 28th on the road against Lexington SC. The two teams that Forward will face outside of their group are Charlotte Independence on May 11th and Union Omaha on August 29th. Kickoff times and broadcast information will be announced soon.
“We are excited for a change in competition format that will focus on adding games of consequence and regional rivalries,” Forward Madison FC Chief Operating Officer Conor Caloia said. “These changes are made to enhance the fan experience. We believe this competition provides a great platform for the future and we look forward to hosting Cup matches in 2024.”
Season tickets for the 2024 Forward Madison season are on sale now.
Secure your seats to every match, including all of the action from the first-ever in-season cup tournament, here.