Almagro vs Nueva Chicago - Primera Nacional

Almagro prepare to host Nueva Chicago at the home ground on September 27, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their Primera Nacional season. Enzo Maresca verdict on Michael Carrick and Manchester United fixture issue - 'you need to adapt'.

The standings paint a clear picture: Almagro in 13th, Nueva Chicago in 15th, and both keen to climb. Consistency has eluded Almagro in recent weeks, with D in their last five and a win rate of 31.03% that tells of an up-and-down campaign. The visitors have been hard to predict on their travels, L in their last five reflecting a win rate of 27.59%. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Almagro average 0.86 per game to Nueva Chicago's 0.72, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. Following a two-year stint in Seattle, Ogwumike continues to produce elite numbers in her 2026 campaign, averaging 16.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game for the Sparks.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Almagro will look to impose their style on home soil, while Nueva Chicago are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer A. Ruiz, with 2 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. There was further déjà vu about Dae-Won Kim's equaliser, with the goal coming down City's right side.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Almagro ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Primera Nacional picture. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".