Ural II vs Izhevsk - Second League - Group 4

The Second League - Group 4 returns to the home ground on June 28, 2026, where Ural II and Izhevsk will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Make it easier than ever to turn a regular fixture into something genuinely unforgettable.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Second League - Group 4 contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. Ural II are still searching for momentum, WLWLL in their last five and a season win rate of just 22.73%. The visitors have found the going tough on their travels, LLDLL in their last five and a win rate of just 22.73% telling its own story. The contrast in attacking output — 1.55 versus 1.36 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Carrick has experimented with Noussair Mazraoui in that position but he seems to have fallen down the pecking order, as the less experienced Patrick Dorgu was preferred for the Manchester derby loss.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Ural II will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Izhevsk will back themselves to cause problems on the break. 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.

With Ruslan Metkalov leading the league's scoring charts at 3 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. United's interest has reportedly cooled, with Dortmund reportedly demanding €100million (£85.8m) for the midfielder.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. The signals point towards a stalemate, with the two sides closely matched across form and standings. A 2-2 draw is easy to envisage. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".