Smail vs Dhofar - FA Cup

The history between Smail and Dhofar lends this FA Cup fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on September 25, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. Chelsea take on Serie A giants Juventus in Hong Kong this morning in the latest fixture on their pre-season tour of Asia.

There is little to choose between Smail and Dhofar on paper, and the FA Cup encounter should reflect that balance. Smail will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. Dhofar will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. Adam Bate examines Joao Moutinho's extraordinary longevity as the Braga midfielder turns 40 years old In Portugal, Sporting also dropped points late in the game as they conceded in stoppage time at Famalicao despite the home side being down to 10 men.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Smail favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Dhofar are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. But it was a dual role for Rayo because he was also among the top dozen players for blocking crosses and winning possession in the defensive third.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. The former Chelsea midfielder knows the league intimately, as a coach and a player.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. With positions in the FA Cup table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or.