Saipa vs Mes Soongoun - Azadegan League

A fascinating Azadegan League chapter awaits on May 14, 2026 when Saipa take on Mes Soongoun at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. Altrincham vs Manchester United U21s highlights and reaction from pre-season fixture.

There is little to choose between Saipa and Mes Soongoun on paper, and the Azadegan League encounter should reflect that balance. Confidence is coursing through the home camp, with WLW in their last five and a season win rate of 100% underscoring their momentum. The visitors have found the going tough on their travels, L in their last five and a win rate of just 0% telling its own story. Where Saipa have leaned on defensive discipline, Mes Soongoun have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. The Saudi Pro League side have now placed a €45 million package on the table, while Watkins himself is understood to be open to making the move.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Saipa will look to impose their style on home soil, while Mes Soongoun are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. There is interest in adding another forward player who can play in one of those wide No 10 roles behind the striker in the 3-4-2-1 formation that Sage is expected to continue with at Selhurst Park.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. The former Liverpool forward has signed a two-year deal after agreeing to terminate his Anfield contract one season early, ending a legendary nine-year spell in England.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 2-2 draw feels like a fitting result. With positions in the Azadegan League 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.