Caxias vs Maringá - Serie C

When Caxias and Maringá clash at the home ground on June 21, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a Serie C fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. He is expected to miss the Community Shield game against Arsenal and the opening Premier League fixture of the season as a result.

A glance at the Serie C table tells the story: Caxias in 14th and Maringá in 4th, with positions to defend and places to climb. The hosts have struggled for consistency, DLLWL in their last five pointing to a win rate of 31.58%. The visitors have been a steady presence on the road, LWWWD in their last five and a campaign win rate of 42.11%. The contrast in attacking output — 0.89 versus 1.68 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Tim Sherwood makes his predictions for the new Premier League season, including who he thinks will make the top four in the table.

Pressing intensity will define the contest. Caxias will seek to win the ball high up the pitch and suffocate Maringá's build-up, while the visitors will aim to play through the pressure and exploit the spaces it leaves behind. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer N. Schiappacasse, with 3 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. With Marcos Senesi similarly forward thinking with his passing, and Van Hecke committing opponents like nobody else, a team is being constructed that can play through the thirds.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Maringá look well-equipped to take the points on the road, with a 1-2 victory well within their reach. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. The 22-year-old was likely quite high up on the list of United's midfield targets and potentially even higher after Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga blows.