FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (October 14, 2026) – Fort Lauderdale United FC (2-6-0, 6 PTS) hits the road Friday evening, travelling to take on in-state opponent Sporting JAX (3-2-2, 11 PTS). The clubs are meeting for the first time since the opening match of the 2026 Gainbridge Super League campaign, when Sporting JAX claimed all three points with a 90th-minute goal. Fort Lauderdale will look to extend its newfound winning streak, while Sporting JAX aims to snap a four-match winless run. With both clubs looking to build momentum, Friday’s matchup presents an important test for each side.
Fort Lauderdale United enters Friday’s matchup following its most dominant performance of the campaign, defeating defending champions Lexington SC at home in an all-around team effort. The explosive attack is led by Sh’nia Gordon, who recorded a brace in the last match and has scored four goals across her last five appearances. She is joined up front by Kiara Locklear, Grace Cutler and the versatile Abi Hugh. The midfield duo of Kelli Van Treeck and Taylor Smith continues to provide stability, while defenders Haley Thomas, Ella Simpson and Kelsey Oyler have maintained their consistent play. Maggy Henschler made her season and Fort Lauderdale debut in the last match, while goalkeeper Haley Craig continued her solid form in net. With Fort Lauderdale looking to extend its winning streak, Friday’s matchup presents another opportunity to earn its first victory over its in-state rival.
Sporting JAX enters Friday’s matchup in its toughest form of the season, going winless in its last four outings with two draws and two losses. The club will take the field for the first time in 20 days following a bye week and the postponement of its most recent match, leaving questions about whether the extended break will provide a boost or lead to some rust. Sporting JAX is led by league-leading scorer Baylee DeSmit and reigning Player of the Year Ashlyn Puerta, while Sophia Boman ranks second in the league in chances created (16). On the defensive end, Georgia Brown ranks tied for eighth in clearances (31), while goalkeeper Jamie Gerstenberg ranks third in the league with two clean sheets. With Sporting JAX looking to earn points in its return to action, Fort Lauderdale will aim to spoil the home side’s return and build on its recent momentum.
Matchup History
The clubs are meeting for the second and final time this season after Sporting JAX claimed a win in the season opener with a 90th-minute free kick at Amerant Bank Field.
Where to Watch
The match is set to kick-off at 7:30 p.m. ET. It will be streamed on the Peacock app and locally broadcasted on H&I. The direct link to watch the match can be found here.
Get Your Tickets
Fort Lauderdale United FC returns to Amerant Bank Field on Thursday, October 22, hosting top-seeded Carolina Ascent FC in an intense matchup in the 2026 Gainbridge Super League season. Click HERE to get your tickets! Stay tuned and follow us on social media to stay up-to-date with all things FTL UTD on Instagram, X(Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, and Facebook.
