Almost level in cup match (3)
I believe the answer is:
tie
I believe this clue is a double definition.
'almost level' is the first definition.
(I've seen this before)
'cup match' is the second definition.
'in' acts as a link.
(Other definitions for tie that I've seen before include "11 [KNOT]" , "Equal score" , "Neck attire" , "around the neck?" , "Fasten, link to" .)