Rodez vs Nimes - Friendlies Clubs

The Friendlies Clubs returns to the home ground on July 22, 2026, where Rodez and Nimes 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.

There is plenty riding on this Friendlies Clubs encounter for Rodez and Nimes 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 travel in the hope that a change of scene can spark a turnaround, whatever the form book says. Dusan Vlahovic followed up his hat-trick on Monday by completing the comeback to leave Fenerbahce four points behind Galatasaray, who snatched a late winner at Basaksehir on Friday.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Rodez may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Nimes have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. After the loss, a lot of questions began to be raised about their different approach to preparing for the game.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Juventus are pushing ahead with negotiations for another versatile forward, with Manchester United now reportedly willing to discuss a temporary departure for Joshua Zirkzee.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Friendlies Clubs standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Fulham's Antonee Robinson could be one of those, who would likely be a cheaper alternative to Hall, who has just enjoyed a breakout season with the Magpies.