Union Espanola vs O'Higgins - Copa Chile

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Union Espanola and O'Higgins together at the home ground on July 5, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the Copa Chile occasion. Chelsea take on Serie A giants Juventus in Hong Kong this morning in the latest fixture on their pre-season tour of Asia.

Both camps will view the Copa Chile meeting at the home ground as an opportunity to put a marker down, regardless of where they currently stand. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. O'Higgins's away form is hard to read, but they will arrive with the belief that they can trouble their hosts. Phil Foden was handed a free role in the No 10 position behind striker Muamba, who scored in consecutive pre-season games.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Union Espanola will look to impose their style on home soil, while O'Higgins are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. And there are still question marks even in attack, where they have an abundance of supporting forwards including Mbeumo, Cunha and Amad Diallo, but only one out-and-out striker in Sesko.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer S. Ribas, with 1 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder has attracted the attention of top clubs like Barcelona, and it seems that Arsenal have now joined the race for him, according to Fussball News.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. 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.