Jezero vs Petrovac - First League

The history between Jezero and Petrovac lends this First League fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at Stadion pod Racinom on April 12, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. He experienced victory in his only Old Firm appearance as a Gers player, but Sunday will be his first taste of the fixture in the dugout.

Both Jezero and Petrovac will be eager to build momentum when they meet in First League. The hosts are badly in need of a turnaround, with LD in their last five and a win rate of just 22.22% highlighting their struggles. The visitors have found the going tough on their travels, L in their last five and a win rate of just 11.11% telling its own story. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Jezero average 1 per game to Petrovac's 0.78, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. 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.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Jezero will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Petrovac will back themselves to cause problems on the break. But the key difference is understanding the game, in possession and out of possession.

In fixtures as finely poised as this one, it often comes down to who holds their nerve in the big moments — and both camps have players who relish that responsibility. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Manzambi becomes Villa's first signing of the summer, with the Europa League holders also closing in on a £38m deal for Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. Whatever the outcome, the First League fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".