The phrase played against can be replaced with several synonymous expressions, depending on the context. If we are talking about sports, we could say "competed against," "faced off," or "battled with." In a game of chess, we might use "matched wits with," "opposed," or "confronted." For a musical performance, "performed alongside" or "shared the stage with" are suitable alternatives. In a debate or argument, we could use "challenged," "contested," or "debated with." No matter the situation, having a diverse vocabulary of synonyms for phrases like "played against" can make our writing or speech more nuanced and engaging.