Carnoux vs Bourgoin-Jallieu - National 3 - Group H

Carnoux prepare to host Bourgoin-Jallieu at Stade Marcel Cerdan on April 18, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their National 3 - Group H season. The 18‑year‑old midfielder featured off the bench in the Foxes’ Carabao Cup first‑round tie last weekend, but could still depart before the window closes.

There is plenty riding on this National 3 - Group H encounter for Carnoux and Bourgoin-Jallieu alike, and neither will want to leave Stade Marcel Cerdan empty-handed. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Tim Sherwood makes his predictions for the new Premier League season, including who he thinks will make the top four in the table.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Carnoux favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Bourgoin-Jallieu are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. And there are still question marks even in attack, where they have an abundance of supporting forwards including Mbeumo, Cunha and Amad Diallo, but only one out-and-out striker in Sesko.

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 battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. There is every reason to believe they will not just stop at just one new forward either.

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. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the National 3 - Group H 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.