Askøy vs Sandviken - NM Cupen

When Askøy and Sandviken clash at the home ground on August 22, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a NM Cupen fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

There is plenty riding on this NM Cupen encounter for Askøy and Sandviken alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. That result ended the European giants' 14-game unbeaten run in the competition, as Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham were contained by an "incredible" performance from a player barely anyone outside of France had heard of.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Askøy will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Sandviken must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. Man Utd are pushing higher and working harder to press and counter-press the opposition, especially to win the ball back quickly after a loss of possession.

In fixtures as finely poised as this one, it often comes down to who holds their nerve in the big moments — and both camps have players who relish that responsibility. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Real Madrid are expected to make an offer for Manchester City midfielder Rodri.

Predictions are tricky when the sides are this evenly matched, and small margins — a moment of quality, a slice of luck — could decide it either way. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the NM Cupen standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. 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.