Real Santander vs Popayan - Copa Colombia

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Real Santander and Popayan together at the home ground on May 12, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the Copa Colombia occasion. Enzo Maresca verdict on Michael Carrick and Manchester United fixture issue - 'you need to adapt'.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Copa Colombia contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. Results have been in short supply for the hosts, with LLLL across their last five and a campaign win rate of 0% that makes for grim reading. The visitors have been picking up results steadily, WLWD over their last five with a campaign win rate of 50%. One side has leaned on a miserly defence, the other on a free-scoring attack, and the meeting of those contrasting strengths promises an intriguing tactical subtext. It’s safe to say that Paige Bueckers is putting up elite all-around numbers in her second WNBA season for the Dallas Wings, averaging over 20 points and nearly six assists a night.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Real Santander and Popayan have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Speaking on his YouTube Ferdinand said: "If I’m Manchester United right now I say press the green button and buy him, take him, right now.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer R. Contreras, with 2 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. Wrexham secured a smash-and-grab 2-1 victory against wasteful Southampton courtesy of Keven Schlotterbeck's late own goal.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 2-2 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. With positions in the Copa Colombia table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.