up against
US /ʌp əˈɡenst/
UK /ʌp əˈɡenst/
1.
in contact with or close to
:
•
He leaned up against the wall.
•
The boat was tied up against the dock.
2.
facing or contending with (a difficulty or opponent)
:
•
We are up against a very strong team.
•
She's up against a tight deadline.