Jacuipense vs Novorizontino - Copa Do Brasil

When Jacuipense and Novorizontino clash at the home ground on March 19, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a Copa Do Brasil fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. 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.

Both Jacuipense and Novorizontino will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Copa Do Brasil. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. If you're Arsenal and wanting to win the Premier League, and you take six points off those teams, then you're near-on winning the Premier League.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Jacuipense favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Novorizontino are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. There is interest in adding another forward player who can play in one of those wide No 10 roles behind the striker in the 3-4-2-1 formation that Sage is expected to continue with at Selhurst Park.

With Carlos Vinícius leading the league's scoring charts at 3 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. City are seeking upwards of £60m for the 30-year-old midfielder, who has entered the final year of his deal.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. With positions in the Copa Do Brasil table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.