Hearts of Pine shut out by Forward Madison

Forward Madison Clocks 2‑0 Win Over Portland to Move into Playoff Contention

Forward Madison FC took advantage of a quick turnover from the Portland Hearts of Pine to win 2‑0 in Saturday night’s USL League One match at the Madison, Wisconsin, stadium. With the victory, the club climbed into third place in the standings, leaving just one game left for the season and positioning them for a playoff push.

The first goal came early, in the fifth minute. Portland’s defense created an opening when Hakim Karamoko drove into the penalty area from the right side. His shot rebounded off Portland goalkeeper Kash Oladapo and found the back of the net as Ryan Carmichael, the Forward Madison forward, stood alone and slotted the ball past the keeper. The goal was later awarded a penalty, with Carmichael converting from the spot in the 40th minute to double the lead.

Karamoko was again instrumental in the second goal. He set up the play before being brought down in the box by Josh Drack. As the ball was cleared, Carmichael found a low left‑wing shot that slipped past Oladapo for his 14th league goal of the season.

The 2‑0 result lifts Forward Madison to the third spot in the table, just one game behind the top‑two clubs that already qualify for the playoffs. Portland, meanwhile, is eliminated from playoff contention and will finish the season with a home match next Saturday against Charlotte Independence, the league’s leading team.

The match was a clean, disciplined affair, with Forward Madison’s defense limiting Portland to only a handful of shots. The win was a crucial one for the Madison club, keeping their playoff hopes alive and giving their fans a reason to celebrate as the regular season winds down.