Lancaster Inferno Set for Home Opener Rivalry Match Against Eagle FC

The 2026 home opener has arrived for Lancaster Inferno.

This Sunday, May 24 at 7:00 PM, Lancaster Inferno returns to Penn Medicine Park to host Eagle FC in another chapter of the growing rivalry between the two clubs.

Fans can expect another competitive battle, as every previous meeting between the teams has been decided by a single goal, with one ending in a dramatic draw. The USL W League schedule has matched the clubs up three times again this season, continuing what has quickly become one of the league’s most competitive regional matchups.

Last season’s meetings delivered plenty of drama. In the June 21 matchup, Lancaster appeared moments away from earning three points on the road before a controversial stoppage time foul call resulted in a penalty kick for Eagle FC. The hosts converted from the spot in the 94th minute to force a 2-2 draw.

Just days earlier on June 18, Eagle FC edged Inferno 2-1 in another tightly contested match that again featured a penalty kick decision in favor of Eagle FC.

The Inferno enters Sunday motivated for another opportunity in front of their home crowd at Penn Medicine Park.

“Our supporters have always played a huge role in creating energy at Penn Medicine Park,” said Head Coach Stephanie Cleaves. “We’re hoping to see a great crowd on Sunday and give our fans an exciting match to open the season at home.”

Inferno’s 2026 roster features a blend of experienced returners and impactful new additions. The team welcomes back 12 returning players, including Ryelle Shuey (Lehigh University / ELCO High School) entering her ninth season, Jessica Weinoldt (McDaniel College / Hempfield High School) and Annabelle Wunderlich (USC Upstate / Dallastown Area High School) entering their eighth seasons, and Rachel Eberly (George Mason University / Cocalico High School) entering her fifth season with the club. The roster also includes 11 new players looking to build upon the standards and success established throughout the club’s history.

“We’re excited about our roster, the talent level, and the mentality within the team,” Cleaves said. “We have returning players who understand the pride and expectations that come with representing Lancaster Inferno, along with new players eager to make an impact and continue building on the success of our club.”

Lancaster Inferno opened the season earlier this month at the Kick It Forward Cup against Richmond Ivy in a community-focused charity match supporting RVAccess and Now I Can Northeast Intensive Pediatric Physical Therapy. The friendly also highlighted the club’s developmental pathway, with five academy and U23 players competing alongside First Team players.

The club’s first regular season match was scheduled to take place this past Wednesday at Northern Virginia FC in Leesburg, Virginia, but was postponed due to inclement weather.

Match Details

Sunday, May 24 | 7:00 PM Kickoff

Penn Medicine Park (650 N Prince St, Lancaster 17603)

The home opener will feature FREE admission for youth players (18 & under) wearing a jersey, as well as FREE admission for veterans and active military members in honor of Memorial Day Weekend.

Tickets: https://www.lancasterstormers.com/ballpark-events/inferno-tickets/