Ninove vs Mechelen II - Second Amateur Division - VFV A

The Second Amateur Division - VFV A returns to the home ground on October 10, 2026, where Ninove and Mechelen II 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.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Second Amateur Division - VFV A contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. Ninove's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Tuchel's subs, Rodri's rank, Messi's masterclass - World Cup highs & lows.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Ninove will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Mechelen II will back themselves to cause problems on the break. Moving the Dane on frees up space and gives the Partenopei greater room to press ahead with their incoming transfer plans.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Lionel Messi’s first goal for Inter Miami post-World Cup compared to Picasso painting.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. The signals point towards a stalemate, with the two sides closely matched across form and standings. A 1-1 draw is easy to envisage. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Second Amateur Division - VFV A standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. 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.