LEXINGTON, Ky. — One hundred three days ago, the Lexington Sporting Club women defeated Carolina Ascent FC in the 2026 Gainbridge Super League Final to clinch the first title in club history. On Friday night, the two juggernauts clash for the first time since the Final at Lexington SC Stadium in a match guaranteed to live up to its billing.
Last season, both clubs ranked among the top in several major statistics.
Lexington conceded only 25 goals, the fewest in the league. Carolina ranked third with 30 allowed.
LSC led the league with 55 goals scored. The Ascent again ranked third with 41.
Lexington finished second with 410 shots, only one behind league-leaders Carolina.
It is more difficult to compare the two sides through four weeks of the Fall 2026 season. The Ascent has played four matches to begin the new campaign, while Lexington has been limited to only two due to Week 2 and Week 4 byes.
Lexington is looking to rebound after its first loss at home since March 8, 2026, last time out. Meanwhile, Carolina has won three of its first four and leads the Gainbridge Super League with eight goals scored.
Four Gals in Green have already found the scoresheet through two outings. Catherine Barry, Addie McCain and Hannah White all scored in the club’s season opener, followed by the first professional goal from midfielder Mac Midgley vs. DC Power FC.
Goalkeeper Ryan Campbell also showcased her abilities between the posts last time out. After only being forced into action twice vs. Brooklyn to begin the season, the loanee from Gotham FC made seven saves vs. DC, including a jaw-dropper near the end of the match.
Additionally, LSC recalled midfielder Darya Rajaee from her loan spell with Tampa Bay Sun FC on Sept. 3. Rajaee started 10 matches for LSC last season, including the Final, after being acquired in the second half. Through three matches with Tampa on loan to begin the Fall 2026 season, Rajaee appeared in every contest, tallied one assist and led the side with six chances created.
The two 2026 Fall favorites renew their budding rivalry at 7:30 p.m. ET from Lexington SC Stadium.
SCOUTING CAROLINA
With a 3W-1L-0D record, Carolina Ascent FC currently sits in second place in the Gainbridge Super League standings, trailing Sporting Club Jacksonville by one point.
The high-flying club’s eight goals lead the league, as does its 21% conversion rate.
Audrey Coleman and Mia Corbin, who scored Carolina’s lone goal against LSC in the Final, pace the side with two goals each. Defender Jill Aguilera is one of two players with multiple assists in the league, and goalkeeper Sydney Martínez’s 19 saves also lead the league.
$1.50 BEER NIGHT
It will be $1.50 Beer Night at Lexington SC Stadium. Fans can enjoy Coors Light and Miller Lite for just $1.50, plus $2 Modelos and $4 craft beer specials from West Sixth Brewing.
HOW TO WATCH
The match will stream live on Peacock.
