JS Jijel vs MSP Batna - Ligue 2

JS Jijel prepare to host MSP Batna at the home ground on October 13, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their Ligue 2 season. Anderson was pointing out that City had held the whip hand in this fixture "for as long as I've known", which isn't exactly inaccurate but will also fan the flames ahead of Sunday's Old Trafford showdown.

There is plenty riding on this Ligue 2 encounter for JS Jijel and MSP Batna 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. MSP Batna will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. Man United are still trying to kickstart their season and a Champions League trip to Atletico Madrid doesn't look particularly appealing to a side that are struggling for form.

Set-piece efficiency and transition play often decide fixtures of this nature, and both managers will have been drilling those phases on the training ground. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. Mourinho's side remain fourth as there were wins for Atletico and for Real Betis, who did not even need Troy Parrott to score in their 5-2 win over Osasuna.

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. 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. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. That would lead most to think that Rahm is likely to spend the 2027 season on the DP World Tour.