FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (October 20, 2026) – Fort Lauderdale United FC (2-7-0, 6 PTS) is set to host Carolina Ascent FC (7-1-1, 22 PTS) at Amerant Bank Field on Thursday evening, taking on the top-seeded club in the Gainbridge Super League. The clubs meet for the first time since the third match of the season, when Carolina earned a 3-0 victory in North Carolina on September 5. Fort Lauderdale looks to win its second match in its last three outings, while Carolina Ascent aims to extend its six-match unbeaten streak. With the top-seeded club making its way to South Florida, Thursday’s matchup presents an opportunity for Fort Lauderdale to pull off another upset.
Fort Lauderdale United enters Thursday’s clash following a difficult loss to second-place Sporting JAX, but the club is just two matches removed from its statement victory over defending champions Lexington SC at Amerant Bank Field. Fort Lauderdale will look to replicate that performance against Carolina Ascent, which has suffered just one loss this season. Forward Sh’nia Gordon has been among the league’s top attacking threats, scoring five goals in her last five matches to rank tied for second in the league with five goals. Gordon is joined in the attack by Kiara Locklear, Grace Cutler, Abi Hugh and Farrah Walters. Midfielders Kelli Van Treeck and Taylor Smith will look to control the center of the pitch, while defenders Haley Thomas, Ella Simpson and Kelsey Oyler continue to provide stability along the back line. Goalkeeper Haley Craig will look to add to her club-record save total against a Carolina Ascent side that leads the league in goals scored. With Fort Lauderdale seeking three points to keep its playoff hopes alive, Thursday’s matchup presents a pivotal opportunity.
Carolina Ascent comes into Thursday’s matchup riding a six-match unbeaten streak, with five wins and one draw since September 5. The club has found success through a balanced attack, with Jill Aguilera (3), Rylee Baisden (3), Audrey Coleman (2), Mia Corbin (2), Reese Tappan (2) and Shea Groom (2) all contributing multiple goals. Additionally, Corbin leads the league with four assists, while Aguilera ranks tied for second with three. Goalkeeper Sydney Martinez has been a standout between the posts, leading the league with 30 saves and six clean sheets. With Carolina Ascent leading the standings and performing at a high level, Fort Lauderdale will need a complete team effort to take down the top-seeded club.
Matchup History
The clubs are meeting for the second and final time this season after Carolina Ascent FC claimed a win in the third match of the year at American Legion Memorial Stadium on September 5.
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.
