Caen vs Laval - Friendlies Clubs

Tactical intrigue takes centre stage on July 18, 2026 as Caen and Laval prepare to square off at the home ground, with both managers known for their strategic nuance in the Friendlies Clubs. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

There is little to choose between Caen and Laval on paper, and the Friendlies Clubs encounter should reflect that balance. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. The Nottingham Forest playmaker is not anticipated to leave the City Ground this summer, unless a substantial transfer fee is put on the table.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Caen will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Laval must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. The winner came from a rare counter-attack by the new-look Spurs side, who defended well throughout with Andy Robertson making his first start and Jan Paul van Hecke on debut, as they battled to secure another win in pre-season.

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. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. He also played predominantly as a right winger or shadow striker for Juve.

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. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.