Always Ready vs Mirassol - CONMEBOL Libertadores

The CONMEBOL Libertadores returns to the home ground on May 20, 2026, where Always Ready and Mirassol will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Anderson was pointing out that City had held the whip hand in this fixture "for as long as I've known", which isn't exactly inaccurate but will also fan the flames ahead of Sunday's Old Trafford showdown.

Always Ready head into the contest positioned 4th in the CONMEBOL Libertadores standings, while Mirassol arrive sitting 2nd. It has been a torrid run for the hosts, LLWLL in their last five and a season win rate of just 16.67% that has the alarm bells ringing. Few sides travel as well as the visitors, with LWWWL in their last five and a win rate of 66.67% marking them out as a class apart. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. One position every Premier League club still needs to strengthen in before the transfer window closes.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Always Ready favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Mirassol are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Rico Lewis played at right-back, but when City were in possession he tucked infield and supported the midfield pairing of Mateo Kovacic and Reijnders.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer C. González, with 7 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Stuttering starts, goals in every match and plenty of excitement - the Scottish Premiership returned with a bang and there is more to look forward to this weekend.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Given the balance of the numbers, Mirassol look capable of springing a surprise on the road — a 1-2 away victory is a distinct possibility. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the CONMEBOL Libertadores picture. A more central role appears likely given the sale of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered by Amadou Onana at the World Cup.