Ware vs AFC Sudbury - FA Trophy

The FA Trophy returns to the home ground on September 12, 2026, where Ware and AFC Sudbury will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The 18‑year‑old midfielder featured off the bench in the Foxes’ Carabao Cup first‑round tie last weekend, but could still depart before the window closes.

The standings paint a clear picture: Ware in 20th, AFC Sudbury in 61st, and both keen to climb. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. AFC Sudbury will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. In terms of net spend, Liverpool topped the table with £219.4m, followed by Ipswich (£190.7m), Spurs (£176m) and Hull (£160.5m).

The tactical subplot is compelling: Ware favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while AFC Sudbury are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. Andoni Iraola could not have been clearer about how he plans to change Liverpool when speaking in his opening press conference.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. Watch Manchester United score their opening goal of the new Champions League campaign.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Ware ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. With positions in the FA Trophy table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or.