Fortaleza EC vs Juventude - Serie B

The Serie B returns to the home ground on April 4, 2026, where Fortaleza EC and Juventude will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

A glance at the Serie B table tells the story: Fortaleza EC in 3rd and Juventude in 2nd, with positions to defend and places to climb. The hosts have done enough without setting the world alight, DWWDW over their last five and a 46.43% win rate to their name. On their travels the visitors have been workmanlike, LWDDW in their last five and a win rate of 50% to show for it. Where Fortaleza EC have leaned on defensive discipline, Juventude have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. The promoted side have plans to strengthen in every position, with midfield the priority.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Fortaleza EC and Juventude have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. That radar allows City to retain control, momentum and possession in games, pinning opponents back in the tempered style Guardiola favoured.

When Mikael is on the pitch — 15 goals to his name this term — moments of magic are never far away, and the Serie B's top scorer will be central to how this one unfolds. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. City are contingency planning like any club would and are believed to be in talks with Lille to sign the highly rated 18-year-old Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who impressed at the World Cup.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Given the balance of the numbers, Juventude look capable of springing a surprise on the road — a 1-2 away victory is a distinct possibility. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.