Vitoria vs Atletico Paranaense - Copa Do Brasil

The Copa Do Brasil returns to the home ground on August 6, 2026, where Vitoria and Atletico Paranaense will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Anderson was pointing out that City had held the whip hand in this fixture "for as long as I've known", which isn't exactly inaccurate but will also fan the flames ahead of Sunday's Old Trafford showdown.

Positionally there is a clear hierarchy: Vitoria sit 24th, Atletico Paranaense lie 29th, but the Copa Do Brasil has a habit of defying such logic. Vitoria's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Meanwhile, Paige Bueckers struggled to find her rhythm, going 5-for-13 for 15 points in the loss.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Vitoria will look to impose their style on home soil, while Atletico Paranaense are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. The Germany club were said to be looking for an out-and-out striker to allow Harry Kane to play a deeper role, and made an approach for Sesko in 2024.

The fixture features no shortage of talent, and the league's top marksman Carlos Vinícius — 3 goals this term — will be one to watch. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Manchester United have been warned about selling Marcus Rashford to a Premier League rival this summer, as uncertainty remains over the forward's future.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Given the balance of the numbers, Vitoria should have enough to edge it — a 2-1 victory looks the most likely outcome. 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".