Platense vs Instituto Cordoba - Copa Argentina

The Copa Argentina returns to the home ground on August 28, 2026, where Platense and Instituto Cordoba will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. There are just three weeks to go in the transfer window and City face more transfer questions than answers ahead of the new campaign.

There is plenty riding on this Copa Argentina encounter for Platense and Instituto Cordoba 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. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Tim Sherwood makes his predictions for the new Premier League season, including who he thinks will make the top four in the table.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Platense favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Instituto Cordoba are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. It isn't clear yet that this will definitely be a winger, with Maresca and sporting director Hugo Viana flexible over their attack.

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. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. But this is still £10m short of what Etihad bosses are demanding for the World Cup winner, having originally stated they wanted at least £60m for the midfielder.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. 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. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Copa Argentina standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. It is understood that his next move is most likely to take him abroad - and potentially to the Premier League.