October 4, 2026 - Hartford Athletic vs. Louisville City FC (USL Cup Final)

There was plenty of history on the line when Hartford Athletic hosted Louisville City FC in the USL Cup Final at Trinity Health Stadium. Hartford was looking to defend its title after winning the club's first-ever trophy in 2025, while Louisville, one of the USL's most successful clubs, had an opportunity to become the first team to win all three major trophies in the league's modern era (USL Championship; Players’ Shield; USL Cup).

Interestingly enough, the two sides had met just nine days earlier in league play at the same venue, playing to a 2-2 draw. This time, however, there was silverware on the line before a sold-out crowd of 6,179.

Aiden McFadden gave Louisville the lead just 12 minutes in, heading home a corner kick from Taylor Davila. Hartford spent much of the second half pushing for an equalizer, creating several opportunities but struggling to find the finishing touch. Louisville's defense held firm, securing a 1-0 victory and its first USL Cup title.

What made the result even more impressive was Louisville's path to the final. After advancing through the quarterfinals and semifinals on penalties, the club completed its knockout run with three consecutive clean sheets, all away from home. For Hartford, it was a disappointing end to its title defense, while Louisville added another chapter to its already impressive history. The following weekend, Louisville clinched a place in the USL Championship Playoffs with a win over Charleston Battery.