In a thrilling display of tactical prowess and resilience, Fort Lauderdale United FC (FTL UTD) triumphed 1-0 over Brooklyn FC in their highly anticipated home opener. The match, played in front of an electrifying crowd at the brand new stadium, marked FTL UTD’s third consecutive victory and solidified their spot near the top of the USL Super League standings. With this win, the team climbs to second place with 10 points from five matches, leaving fans excited for what’s to come.
The game was a battle of endurance and strategy, with both teams eager to secure crucial points. Fort Lauderdale took control early, with Sh’Nia Gordon relentlessly attacking down the left wing. In the third minute, she played a perfect cross to Felicia Knox, whose sliding attempt narrowly missed the right post. Gordon continued to torment the Brooklyn defense throughout the first half, her connection with left-back Cameron Brooks proving especially difficult for the visitors to handle.
Despite numerous close chances from Gordon and midfielder Addie McCain, Brooklyn’s defense held strong, with impressive goalkeeping keeping the scoreline level. The first half ended in a stalemate, with neither side able to find the back of the net despite FTL UTD’s dominance in possession and creativity.
The second half began with Fort Lauderdale pressing even harder. Jasmine Hamid came close with a shot on target in the 50th minute, and as the game progressed, substitutions brought fresh energy to the home side. In the 59th minute, Nia Christopher and Taylor Smith entered the match, injecting more pace into FTL UTD’s attack. Christopher’s skillful play down the right side and a series of dangerous crosses from Brooks and Adrienne Jordan kept Brooklyn’s defense on high alert.
FTL UTD’s breakthrough finally came in the 82nd minute, courtesy of substitute defender Reese Klein. After a perfectly delivered corner kick from Taylor Smith was partially cleared out of the box, Klein pounced on the loose ball, taking a touch before unleashing a world-class strike from outside the box. Her shot sailed into the top left corner, igniting the stadium as Fort Lauderdale took a deserved 1-0 lead. Klein’s goal, a moment of brilliance, underscored the team’s determination to win and sealed the historic victory.
As the clock ticked down, Brooklyn mounted a late offensive push, but Fort Lauderdale’s defense, led by Celia Gaynor’s strong tackling and positioning, held firm. Even with a near miss from Brooklyn’s Felicia Knox in the final moments, FTL UTD closed out the match with their defense intact, securing the clean sheet and a vital three points.
With this victory, Fort Lauderdale United FC continues their march towards the top of the Super League, building momentum with every game. The team’s next challenge comes on the road against Tampa Bay Sun FC on October 12, with kickoff set for 7:00 p.m. EST. Fans can catch the action live on Peacock.
Scoring Summary:
FTL UTD: Reese Klein, 82’
Up Next:
Fort Lauderdale United FC will be back in South Florida on October 19, welcoming Lexington to their home turf. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST, and tickets are available now for both season packages and single matches. Secure your tickets here.
This home opener victory not only highlights the team’s potential but also sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting inaugural season in the USL Super League.