FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (November 4, 2026) – Fort Lauderdale United FC (2-8-1, 7 PTS) is set to host Tampa Bay Sun FC (2-5-3, 9 PTS) on Friday evening for the final Florida Derby of the 2026 Gainbridge Super League season. The clubs are meeting for the second time this campaign after Tampa Bay claimed all three points in a dramatic matchup at Suncoast Credit Union Field on September 12, which featured a 40-minute delay due to lighting issues. Fort Lauderdale looks to keep its playoff hopes alive on Friday night, while Tampa Bay aims to snap a four-match losing streak in South Florida. With both clubs fighting to stay in the playoff race, Friday’s Florida Derby carries significant implications as the season enters its final stretch.
Fort Lauderdale United enters Friday’s matchup looking to find consistency, having earned points in two of its last four matches while dropping the other two. The club played a competitive 70 minutes against Dallas Trinity FC on Sunday evening before a red card shifted the momentum, resulting in a 3-0 loss. Despite the setback, Fort Lauderdale returns to Amerant Bank Field for the first time since its impressive draw against top-seeded Carolina Ascent on October 22. The attack is led by dominant forward Sh’nia Gordon, alongside attacking threats Kiara Locklear, Grace Cutler and Abi Hugh. Along the back line, captain Haley Thomas and league leader in clearances Ella Simpson provide stability, with outside backs Kelsey Oyler and Maggy Henschler rounding out the defensive unit. Goalkeeper Haley Craig continues to rank among the league’s top shot-stoppers, leading the league with 41 saves and expected to play a key role on Friday. With Fort Lauderdale searching for its first-ever win over its in-state rival, Friday’s Florida Derby presents an important opportunity to get back on track against a Tampa Bay side also looking to regain its form.
Tampa Bay Sun enters Friday’s Florida Derby looking to turn around its recent form, carrying a four-match losing streak that dates back to October 10. During that stretch, Tampa has scored just two goals while conceding eight, struggling to find consistency on both ends of the pitch. Despite its recent results, the club features a balanced attack capable of creating opportunities from multiple areas. Forward Shea Connors leads the team with five goals, ranking tied for third in the league, while Jordan Zade and Sydny Nasello have each recorded two assists to lead the club in playmaking. With Tampa Bay searching for a way out of its slump, Fort Lauderdale will look to capitalize on its opponent’s recent struggles and deliver a much-needed result in front of its home crowd.
Matchup History
The clubs are meeting for the second and final time this season after Tampa Bay Sun FC earned three points in a dramatic match that included a 40-minute delay at Suncoast Credit Union Field on September 12.
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 Friday, November 6, hosting rival Tampa Bay Sun FC in the United For Good Game – supporting United Way Broward – in the final edition of the Florida Derby in the 2026 Gainbridge Super League campaign. 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.
