Cesena vs Vis Pesaro - Friendlies Clubs

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Cesena and Vis Pesaro together at the home ground on August 5, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the Friendlies Clubs occasion. Altrincham vs Manchester United U21s highlights and reaction from pre-season fixture.

Form and standings can only tell part of the story when Cesena and Vis Pesaro cross paths in the Friendlies Clubs, and pride alone should guarantee a contest. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Their 3-0 win over Nice takes them up to second spot in the fledgling Ligue 1 table.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Cesena favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Vis Pesaro are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Tottenham have changed their approach and are spending big on players who already know the Premier League.

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. Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest applauds the fans as he warms up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Nottingham Forest(Image: Getty) United are reportedly eyeing a move for Brentford striker Igor Thiago this summer.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. With positions in the Friendlies Clubs table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. And Fonseca does not place too much weight on the decision of Roberto Martinez to omit him from the World Cup squad in favour of his Benfica team-mate Tomas Araujo.