Explore Coral's detailed preview for Middlesbrough vs Blackburn in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 15:00 GMT match.
Match Details
Fixture: Middlesbrough vs Blackburn
Date: Friday, 26 December 2025
Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
Venue: Riverside Stadium
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Our predictions for Middlesbrough vs Blackburn
Match Prediction: Middlesbrough 2-1 Blackburn
Middlesbrough come into this match with strong momentum, having won four out of their last five games. Their recent form suggests they are likely to dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities. Blackburn, on the other hand, have been inconsistent, with only one win in their last five matches. This could lead to a game where Middlesbrough's attacking prowess is tested against Blackburn's defensive resilience.
Given the injuries to key Blackburn players, their squad depth might be stretched, potentially impacting their performance. Middlesbrough's predicted lineup shows a balanced team capable of both defending and attacking effectively. Blackburn will need to be at their best to counter Middlesbrough's offensive threats. The head-to-head record suggests a close contest, but Middlesbrough's current form gives them the edge.
Middlesbrough have been in excellent form recently, winning four out of their last five matches. Their only loss came against Bristol City away from home, but they preceded that with wins against QPR, Charlton, Hull City, and Derby. This run of form will give them confidence heading into this match, and they are likely to approach the game with high morale and a strong belief in their ability to secure another victory.
Recent Championship Results:
Loss: 0-2 vs Bristol City (A)
Win: 3-1 vs QPR (H)
Win: 2-1 vs Charlton (A)
Win: 4-1 vs Hull City (A)
Win: 2-1 vs Derby (H)
Blackburn
Blackburn's recent form has been less convincing, with only one win in their last five games. They managed a 2-0 victory against Millwall at home but suffered a loss to Portsmouth and drew their other three matches. This inconsistency could affect their confidence and performance in this upcoming game. They will need to find a way to break their pattern of draws and losses to compete effectively against a strong Middlesbrough side.
Recent Championship Results:
Win: 2-0 vs Millwall (H)
Loss: 1-2 vs Portsmouth (A)
Draw: 1-1 vs Oxford United (H)
Draw: 1-1 vs Ipswich (H)
Draw: 1-1 vs Wrexham (A)
Head-to-Head Record
The head-to-head record between Middlesbrough and Blackburn shows a closely contested rivalry. In their most recent encounter, Middlesbrough won 2-0 away at Blackburn. However, Blackburn have had success in the past, winning 1-0 prior to that. The teams also played out a goalless draw in their previous meeting, indicating that matches between these two sides can often be tight affairs.
Middlesbrough are expected to line up in a 4-2-2-2 formation, with Brynn in goal and a back four of Brittain, Ayling, Jones, and Targett. This setup should allow them to maintain a solid defensive structure while enabling Gilbert and Hackney to control the midfield, feeding the ball to attackers Strelec and Conway.
Blackburn are predicted to use a 3-4-1-2 formation, with Pears in goal and a back three of Miller, McLoughlin, and Pratt. This formation should provide defensive stability, allowing Litherland, Morishita, Tronstad, and Pickering to support the attacking trio of Cantwell, Ohashi, and Guðjohnsen.
Key Battles & Players to Watch
Strelec vs Miller: Strelec's pace and finishing will be tested against Miller's defensive solidity.
Gilbert vs Tronstad: Gilbert's creativity in midfield will face a stern challenge from Tronstad's tenacity.
Whittaker (Middlesbrough): Whittaker's ability to control the midfield and create chances will be crucial for Middlesbrough.
Pickering (Blackburn): Pickering's versatility and work rate in midfield will be vital for Blackburn's performance.
FAQs
How to watch Middlesbrough vs Blackburn
Middlesbrough vs Blackburn at 15:00 GMT on Friday, 26 December 2025 is being broadcast live for viewers in the UK on Sky Sports+
What is Coral's prediction for Middlesbrough vs Blackburn?
Coral is predicting that the score will be Middlesbrough 2-1 Blackburn in this match
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