Fort Lauderdale United FC will visit Tampa Bay Sun FC on Saturday, September 12, for the first Florida Derby of the 2026 Gainbridge Super League season. The match is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET at Suncoast Credit Union Field in Tampa Bay, where Tampa Bay Sun FC will play its home opener.
Fort Lauderdale United FC enters at 1-2-0 with three points, while Tampa Bay Sun FC is 1-1-1 with four points. Fort Lauderdale United FC is closing a two-match road trip and beginning a three-match stretch across 10 days.
Fort Lauderdale United FC seeks first victory over Tampa Bay
Fort Lauderdale United FC has not defeated Tampa Bay Sun FC in nine meetings. The clubs met four times during the 2025/26 campaign, with Tampa Bay Sun FC winning two meetings and the other two ending in draws.
Fort Lauderdale United FC’s attack is led by Kiara Locklear, Grace Cutler, Sh’nia Gordon and Farrah Walters. Nicole Vernis, Kelli Van Treeck, Emily Thompson and Shea Moyer make up the midfield, while Haley Thomas, Ella Simpson, Kelsey Oyler and Maggie Mace anchor the defense.
Goalkeeper Haley Craig has recorded one clean sheet this season, against Brooklyn FC two matches ago. Fort Lauderdale United FC is coming off a road loss to Carolina Ascent in its first road match of the season.
Tampa Bay Sun FC prepares for home opener
Tampa Bay Sun FC opened the season with three road matches, including a 2-0 victory over Carolina Ascent on Aug. 29. The club’s veteran core includes Jordyn Listro, Sydny Nasello, Vivianne Bessette and Brooke Hendrix, while Shea Connors is tied for third in the league with two goals.
Tampa Bay Sun FC is one of three league teams with a win, draw and loss this season. The club is the inaugural Gainbridge Super League champion and has played in both league seasons.
How to watch
The match will be streamed on the Peacock app and locally broadcast on WPLG Local 10. Fort Lauderdale United FC is scheduled to host Dallas Trinity FC at Amerant Bank Field on Sept. 18.
Source: Original report