Tarbes vs Angoulême - National 2 - Group B

The National 2 - Group B returns to the home ground on September 12, 2026, where Tarbes and Angoulême will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The 74-year-old Hoops boss admitted that "it'll be a bit strange not having the (Celtic) fans in but I'm nervously and excitedly looking forward to it; it's a great fixture" and also spoke about the police visit.

A glance at the National 2 - Group B table tells the story: Tarbes in 8th and Angoulême in 2nd, with positions to defend and places to climb. Tarbes have blown hot and cold, L across their last five and a win rate of 25% that leaves room for improvement. The visitors have been a force on their travels, W in their last five and a campaign win rate of 75% that demands respect. Where Tarbes have built their campaign on solidity, Angoulême have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. Ipswich would be open to permanent offers for the winger, who has three years to run on his contract.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Tarbes favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Angoulême are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Tuesday's print edition of ABC, as relayed by Sport Witness, have claimed that Betis turned down a €50m approach from a wealthy non-Premier League club for Antony.

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. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Free agent defender Oscar Mingueza can play as a right-back and a central defender and provides Palace with the flexibility they need for five at the back.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Despite the home advantage enjoyed by Tarbes, the weight of evidence favours Angoulême — a 1-2 away win is the call. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".