Sarasota Paradise will host fellow South Florida Division team Fort Lauderdale United on Sunday, July 20 at 7:30 PM in the Southern Conference Semifinal of the USL League Two Playoffs presented by VensureHR.
In the Southern Conference Quarterfinal, Sarasota defeated Southeastern Conference champions Sporting JAX. Elias Khodri opened the scoring in the first half, giving Paradise the lead. That advantage was doubled in the 69th minute when Andres Freire’s shot deflected into the net. Sarasota held strong to secure a 2-0 victory.
In the other quarterfinal, Fort Lauderdale United edged past Laredo Heat SC 2-1 after extra time.
Sarasota Paradise and Fort Lauderdale United have already faced off twice during the regular season, with Paradise winning both encounters. The first game ended in a 2-1 away win for Sarasota, while the second saw Paradise dominate at home with a 3-0 victory at Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch.
“I think it’s going to be a battle. The team that wants it more is going to go through,” said Head Coach Mirko Djakovic when asked about the challenges of facing Fort Lauderdale a third time.
“They know our tendencies a lot more, but on the flip side, we know theirs. It comes down to a team who’s going to execute. I think us having the home field advantage with the crowd is a big advantage for us,” added goalkeeper Jack Kilstrom.
Tickets for the Southern Conference Semifinal vs. Fort Lauderdale United at Premier Sports Campus at Lakewood Ranch are available at sarasotaparadise.us/semifinal.
Season Ticket Member Deals of the Game
2025 Division Champions T-Shirt: 25% off
Paradise Protein Pack: 50% off
PBJ Snack Pack: 50% off
Game Day Schedule
- Parking is free and gates open at 6:00 PM
- Kickoff is at 7:30 PM