TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Sun claimed victory in the USL Women’s Super League’s inaugural championship, edging out Fort Lauderdale United with a 1-0 win on Saturday night in extra time.
Cecilie Fløe emerged as the hero, netting the decisive goal in the 100th minute. Sydny Nasello laid the groundwork for the play, dribbling skillfully along the back line before making a precise pass to Fløe, who maneuvered through two defenders effortlessly to score in front of a packed Riverfront Stadium crowd. This goal marked Fløe’s 12th for the season, showcasing her formidable talent as a Danish international.
Fort Lauderdale United, with a season record of 11-9-9, had previously caused a stir by defeating the top-seeded North Carolina Ascent 2-1 in the semifinals. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Sun (13-6-10) advanced to the final by overcoming the Dallas Trinity with another 2-1 victory.
The Super League, in its debut season, has quickly positioned itself as a top-tier women’s professional soccer league in the United States, standing alongside the National Women’s Soccer League. Unlike the NWSL, the league adopts a fall-to-spring schedule, similar to numerous international competitions, and is set to expand with a ninth team joining the roster next season.
Even though it does not yet have the widespread recognition of the established NWSL, the Super League has significantly broadened professional playing prospects for women in the sport across the nation.
Home Tampa Bay claims USL Women's League title, 1-0 vs Ft Lauderdale