Explore Coral’s game week 2 detailed match preview for Blackburn Rovers vs Birmingham City in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and line-ups for the 15:00 BST kick-off at Ewood Park, Saturday, 16 August 2025.
Our predictions for Blackburn Rovers vs Birmingham City
Blackburn Rovers come into this match on the back of a narrow defeat to West Bromwich Albion. Their recent form suggests a team that's struggling to find the back of the net, having failed to score in their last outing. However, playing at home might give them the boost they need to turn things around. They'll need to be more clinical in front of goal and capitalise on any defensive lapses from Birmingham City.
Birmingham City, on the other hand, managed a draw against a strong Ipswich Town side in their last game. This result shows they can hold their own against tough opposition, but they'll need to be more decisive if they want to secure a win here. Their away form will be crucial, and they'll look to exploit any weaknesses in Blackburn's defence. This match could be closely contested, with both teams eager to bounce back from their recent results.
Match Prediction: Blackburn Rovers 1-1 Birmingham City
Form Guide & Team Overview
Blackburn Rovers
Blackburn Rovers are coming off a disappointing loss to West Bromwich Albion, where they failed to score. This lack of firepower up front could be a concern as they face Birmingham City. However, playing at home might give them the confidence boost they need to improve their performance. They'll need to be more effective in the final third to secure a positive result in this match.
Birmingham City managed to secure a draw against Ipswich Town in their last game, showing resilience and the ability to compete against strong teams. This result could give them the confidence they need as they travel to face Blackburn Rovers. However, their away form will be crucial, and they'll need to be more clinical in front of goal to come away with a win. This match presents an opportunity for them to build on their recent performance and secure a positive result.
The head-to-head record between Blackburn Rovers and Birmingham City is closely contested, with both teams having recent victories over each other. Birmingham City has won two of the last five encounters, while Blackburn Rovers have also won two and one draw.
Recent Championship Results
Birmingham City 1-0 Blackburn Rovers (13 Feb 2024)
Blackburn Rovers 4-2 Birmingham City (29 Nov 2023)
Birmingham City 1-0 Blackburn Rovers (01 Apr 2023)
Birmingham City 0-1 Blackburn Rovers (31 Jan 2023)
Blackburn Rovers 2-2 Birmingham City (28 Jan 2023)
Blackburn Rovers will look to their midfield, led by Tronstad and Travis, to control the game and provide stability. Hedges and Cantwell will be key in creating chances, while Ohashi needs to be clinical to break down Birmingham’s defence. With Hayden Carter sidelined, Yuri Ribeiro and Dominic Hyam will anchor the backline, aiming to contain Birmingham’s pacey attackers.
Birmingham City’s attack will rely on the pace and skill of Gray and Osayi-Samuel to create scoring opportunities, with Stansfield leading the line after his goal against Ipswich. In midfield, Paik and Furuhashi will aim to dictate the tempo, while Klarer steps up in defence with Ducksch injured.
Key Battles & Players to Watch
Yuki Ohashi vs Christoph Klarer: Ohashi's movement and finishing will be tested against Klarer's defensive solidity.
Demarai Gray vs Yuri Ribeiro: Gray's pace and dribbling skills will challenge Ribeiro's defensive capabilities.
Ribeiro (Blackburn Rovers): Ribeiro's defensive performance will be crucial in containing Birmingham's attacking threats.
Kyogo Furuhashi (Birmingham City): Furuhashi's ability to control the midfield and create chances will be key for Birmingham's success.
Coral brings you the most exciting offers to enhance your experience.
For the best Championship outright predictions, explore our guide.
Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.
