
Bright Bits: Florida Derby Returns to Downtown Tampa
Published on February 21, 2026 under Gainbridge Super League (GSL)
Tampa Bay Sun FC News Release
Tampa Bay Sun FC returns home this weekend to host Fort Lauderdale United FC at Suncoast Credit Union Field in Downtown Tampa. Kickoff is set for Saturday at 7:30 p.m., as the Sun look to defend their home field in a series shaped by rivalry and championship history.
Where & When:
Matchup: Tampa Bay Sun FC vs. Fort Lauderdale United FC
Where: Suncoast Credit Union Field | Downtown Tampa
When: Saturday, February 21 | 7:30 p.m. ET
TV Coverage: WTOG, Tampa Bay 44 | Peacock
Back on Home Pitch
The Sun continued the second half of their season at home last Saturday with a 1-1 draw against DC Power FC. Tampa Bay battled to secure a point and maintain momentum heading into the spring portion of their schedule. This result keeps Tampa Bay within reach as the club continues its push up the Gainbridge Super League standings.
Tampa Bay now turns its attention to a familiar, fellow Florida native opponent.
Florida Derby
Fort Lauderdale is still seeking its first victory against the Sun, with previous matchups ending in ties and a championship victory for Tampa Bay, where the Sun brought home the trophy. The Florida Derby returns this weekend in another competitive battle between the two sides.
Saturday also carries personal significance for Sabrina McNeill, who brings prior experience in the Florida Derby. The defender played for Fort Lauderdale during that championship matchup and now faces her former team wearing Sun colors.
International Talent
Three Sun players have earned national team call-ups, reflecting both individual talent and the club's expanding global presence.
Sydney Schneider - Jamaica
Braelynn Galt - Scotland
Liz Beardsley - United States U23 Women's National Team
By The Numbers
Tampa Bay Sun FC
Record: 1-9-6
Goals Scored: 16
Goals Conceded: 27
League Position: 9th
Last Match: 1-1 draw vs. DC Power
Fort Lauderdale United FC
Record: 4-7-6
Goals Scored: 23
Goals Conceded: 19
League Position: 8th
Last Match: 3-3 draw vs. Brooklyn FC
Matchday Spotlight: Yellow Out
Saturday night will feature a yellow-out at Suncoast Credit Union Field. The Sun will take the pitch in their yellow kits. Fans are encouraged to match their energy by wearing their brightest yellow in support of the Sun. The club aims to create a unified, lively atmosphere as Tampa Bay comes together in support of their team for the Florida Derby.
Upcoming Matches
The Sun will continue their spring schedule with multiple home matches through May as the playoff race moves forward.
Wednesday, March 18 vs. Brooklyn FC
Sunday, April 5 vs. Carolina Ascent FC
Saturday, April 11 vs. DC Power FC
Saturday, April 25 vs. Carolina Ascent FC
Saturday, May 9 vs. Dallas Trinity FC
Tickets for upcoming Tampa Bay Sun FC home games are available.
Gainbridge Super League Stories from February 21, 2026
- Tampa Bay Sun FC Dominates in 3-0 Win vs. Fort Lauderdale United FC in Florida Derby - Tampa Bay Sun FC
- Fort Lauderdale Falls in Florida Derby Clash on Road - Fort Lauderdale United FC
- Fort Lauderdale Falls in Florida Derby Clash on Road - Fort Lauderdale United FC
- Sporting JAX Women Hands Lexington SC First Loss of Season in Pivotal Battle - Sporting Club Jacksonville
- Studer's Brace Powers Carolina Ascent Past Dallas Trinity FC - Carolina Ascent FC
- Bright Bits: Florida Derby Returns to Downtown Tampa - Tampa Bay Sun FC
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
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