Araz vs Imisli FK - Premyer Liqa

There is a notable edge to this Premyer Liqa fixture. When Araz meet Imisli FK at the home ground on May 2, 2026, both will sense an opportunity to land a telling blow. 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.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Premyer Liqa contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. It has been a torrid run for the hosts, L in their last five and a season win rate of just 0% that has the alarm bells ringing. On the road the visitors have looked devoid of inspiration, LL in their last five and a win rate of 16.67% that makes for sobering reading. Where Araz have built their campaign on solidity, Imisli FK have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Elsewhere, there was a useful win for Atletico Madrid to end Sevilla's unlikely winning run.

The touchline duel between the two managers adds another layer of intrigue, with both likely to tweak their setups in search of a decisive edge. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. But former Reds forward Teddy Sheringham believes Tielemans isn’t good enough to be the midfielder United needed.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. With positions in the Premyer Liqa table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.