Worthing vs Barrow - National League

All eyes turn to the home ground on September 12, 2026 as Worthing welcome Barrow in a National League encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. Just as was the case in the previous meeting between the teams in April of last year, when Emery's side gave them such a scare in the Champions League tie at Villa Park, PSG were hanging on at the end.

Worthing head into the contest positioned 16th in the National League standings, while Barrow arrive sitting 21st. Patchy would be the kindest description of Worthing's recent run: DDLLW in their last five, a season win rate of 28.57%. The visitors have been enduring a wretched campaign, DWDLD in their last five and a season win rate of just 14.29% that leaves them deep in trouble. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. Paulo Fonseca's men are still smarting from their Champions League play-off exit but now sit third in the table.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Worthing will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Barrow will back themselves to cause problems on the break. They were slightly found out against Amorim's Milan in pre-season, with the press not quite sharp enough - the fourth goal, in particular, came from just one ball over a high-lined defence.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Barcelona are believed to have received encouragement they stand a good chance of signing the midfielder should Rodri move in this window.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. Backed by home advantage and superior form, Worthing ought to prevail — a 2-1 victory looks the logical call. With positions in the National League table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Manchester City will begin another Premier League season with major uncertainty hanging over the club after league chief executive Richard Masters admitted the long-awaited verdict on their financial case has taken longer than expected.