Spartans vs Dundee II - Challenge Cup

A fascinating Challenge Cup chapter awaits on September 25, 2026 when Spartans take on Dundee II at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. The sheer joy on the 18-year-old defender’s face resonated with Paul Schaffran back at the academy.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Challenge Cup contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. 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. On Wednesday night, Infantino was given the "full support" of FIFA's management board in a statement despite being forced to abandon his plan to sell stakes in a company to run the World Cup to private investors.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Spartans will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Dundee II will back themselves to cause problems on the break. Man Utd are pushing higher and working harder to press and counter-press the opposition, especially to win the ball back quickly after a loss of possession.

With Taylor Hogarth leading the league's scoring charts at 0 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. 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. Baleba made it clear that he wanted to sign last summer, but Brighton valued the midfielder in excess of £100m, which was not a realistic fee for United in a window when other areas needed to be prioritised.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. 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 Challenge Cup table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. England captain Harry Kane is likely to sign a new deal to extend his stay at Bayern Munich despite interest from Barcelona.