Guria vs Merani Tbilisi - David Kipiani Cup

All eyes turn to the home ground on June 26, 2026 as Guria welcome Merani Tbilisi in a David Kipiani Cup encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the David Kipiani Cup contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. Merani Tbilisi will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Guria and Merani Tbilisi have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. Meanwhile, Ajax's new striker Tolu Arokodare continued his strong start by lashing in a fourth goal in three games in their 4-0 victory away to Telstar.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the David Kipiani Cup standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. The team currently most likely to win the 2026 WNBA Finals according to Opta.