Berane vs Iskra - Second League

A fascinating Second League chapter awaits on April 8, 2026 when Berane take on Iskra at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Second League contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. Berane are in the midst of a difficult spell, LD in their last five summing up a win rate of 0%. Road trips have been a source of frustration for the visitors — LLDLD in their last five, a season win rate of 28.57%. Where Berane have leaned on defensive discipline, Iskra have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape 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.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Berane favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Iskra are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. No wonder the skipper had talked of a 'new Aston Villa' in the pre-match press conference with what seemed like genuine excitement.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. 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. If that happens before the summer transfer deadline, it's understood that a loan could be on the cards for the defender for the season.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. 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.