Radcliffe vs Macclesfield - National League - North

Radcliffe prepare to host Macclesfield at the home ground on April 25, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their National League - North season. That coronation came from City's £116m summer signing Elliot Anderson - and has been hotly debated in the build-up to the Manchester derby Super Sunday showdown at Old Trafford, which you can watch live on Sky Sports.

There is little to choose between Radcliffe and Macclesfield on paper, and the National League - North encounter should reflect that balance. Radcliffe are still searching for momentum, LWLLL in their last five and a season win rate of just 22.22%. Macclesfield have travelled reasonably well, DDLWW over their last five with a season win rate of 55.56%. The contrast in attacking output — 0.89 versus 1.33 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Following a two-year stint in Seattle, Ogwumike continues to produce elite numbers in her 2026 campaign, averaging 16.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game for the Sparks.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Radcliffe may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Macclesfield have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. And there are still question marks even in attack, where they have an abundance of supporting forwards including Mbeumo, Cunha and Amad Diallo, but only one out-and-out striker in Sesko.

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. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Milan and Porto are reportedly monitoring the forward for some time, too, with Shakhtar apparently valuing Elias at around £30million amid this interest.

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. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. Whatever the outcome, the National League - North fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. It is likely City adopt a more proactive pressing system higher up the pitch in order to exert territorial control on opponents.