Volna vs BATE II - 1. Division

Volna prepare to host BATE II at the home ground on April 18, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their 1. Division season. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

Positionally there is a clear hierarchy: Volna sit 8th, BATE II lie 17th, but the 1. Division has a habit of defying such logic. Volna have held their own of late, LWLLL in their last five reflecting a steady win rate of 41.67%. On the road the visitors have looked devoid of inspiration, WLDWW in their last five and a win rate of 20.83% that makes for sobering reading. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. In terms of net spend, Liverpool topped the table with £219.4m, followed by Ipswich (£190.7m), Spurs (£176m) and Hull (£160.5m).

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Volna will look to impose their style on home soil, while BATE II are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. Moving the Dane on frees up space and gives the Partenopei greater room to press ahead with their incoming transfer plans.

The fixture features no shortage of talent, and the league's top marksman Pavel Alenchev — 1 goals this term — will be one to watch. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Man United striker Joshua Zirkzee is facing interest over a move away from Old Trafford.(Image: Niall Carson/PA Wire) Arsenal are growing in confidence at snapping up two Manchester United prospects, according to the Telegraph.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Volna ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the 1. Division picture. 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.