Dinamo Stavropol vs Astrakhan - Cup

Dinamo Stavropol prepare to host Astrakhan at the home ground on August 26, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their Cup season. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

There is plenty riding on this Cup encounter for Dinamo Stavropol and Astrakhan alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. 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. Ipswich would be open to permanent offers for the winger, who has three years to run on his contract.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Dinamo Stavropol will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Astrakhan must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. Hipolito/Europa Press via Getty Images) According to Fabrizio Romano, Man United 'are not proceeding' with a move for the Brighton midfielder.

With Matheus Reis leading the league's scoring charts at 1 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. It is claimed that Old Trafford bosses were told that the Shakhtar ace holds the 'potential to develop into a top-level centre-forward.' It was also said that Elias would slot into United's system well.

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. 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 Cup table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Fulham's Antonee Robinson could be one of those, who would likely be a cheaper alternative to Hall, who has just enjoyed a breakout season with the Magpies.