Shakhter Karagandy vs Taraz - 1. Division

A fascinating 1. Division chapter awaits on September 17, 2026 when Shakhter Karagandy take on Taraz at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. He experienced victory in his only Old Firm appearance as a Gers player, but Sunday will be his first taste of the fixture in the dugout.

The standings paint a clear picture: Shakhter Karagandy in 1st, Taraz in 7th, and both keen to climb. The hosts have been imperious, W in their last five underpinning an elite win rate of 90.91% that marks them out as genuine contenders. Taraz have blown hot and cold, D across their last five and a season win rate of 36.36%. 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. The 24-year-old finished first in one of Arsenal's big pre-season testing challenges - a 1.4km run at full pace.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Shakhter Karagandy favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Taraz are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer Anuar Amanzhanov, with 1 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Milan and Porto are reportedly monitoring the forward for some time, too, with Shakhtar apparently valuing Elias at around £30million amid this interest.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. All signs point towards a home win, with Shakhter Karagandy favoured to come out on top by a 3-1 scoreline. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the 1. Division picture. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.