Oxford United vs Southampton: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Coral's detailed preview for Oxford United vs Southampton in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 15:00 GMT match.

• Fixture: Oxford United vs Southampton
• Date: Friday, 26 December 2025
• Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
• Venue: Kassam Stadium

Oxford United will be looking to bounce back from a string of poor results, with their last win coming against Ipswich at home. The absence of key players like Brannagan and Phillips might hinder their performance, but their predicted 4-2-3-1 formation could provide a solid defensive structure while allowing them to counter-attack effectively. Harris up front will be crucial in converting any chances that come their way.

Southampton, on the other hand, have shown more consistency in their recent form, with two wins and a draw in their last five matches. Despite missing several players due to injury, their predicted 3-4-2-1 formation should allow them to control the midfield and create numerous scoring opportunities. Scienza and Armstrong will be pivotal in breaking down Oxford's defence.

Oxford United have struggled in their recent outings, securing only one win in their last five matches. Their most recent loss was a 0-1 defeat away to Charlton, which adds to the pressure as they face Southampton. This poor run of form might affect their confidence, but a home win against Ipswich could serve as a glimmer of hope for a turnaround.

Recent Championship Results:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Charlton (A)
• Loss: 1-2 vs Preston (H)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Blackburn (A)
• Loss: 0-2 vs Swansea (A)
• Win: 2-1 vs Ipswich (H)

Southampton have shown a more balanced performance in their recent games, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five matches. Their latest result was a 1-1 draw at home against Coventry, which suggests they can hold their own against competitive teams. This form should give them the momentum needed to perform well against Oxford United.

Recent Championship Results:

• Draw: 1-1 vs Coventry (H)
• Loss: 1-2 vs Norwich (A)
• Win: 3-2 vs West Brom (H)
• Win: 3-1 vs Birmingham (H)
• Loss: 2-3 vs Millwall (A)

These sides have never met in the Championship before so the upcoming match is like a blank piece of paper. It's anyone's game, but recent form perhaps favours Southampton.

• Cameron Brannagan (Calf) - Out

  Matthew Phillips (Thigh) – Out

• Damion Downs (Knock) – Doubt

• Mads Roerslev (Knee) – Out

• Shea Charles (Hamstring) – Out

• Elias Jelert (Hip) – Doubt

• Ross Stewart (Hamstring) – Out

• Samuel Edozie (Hamstring) – Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Cumming (GK), Spencer (DF), Helik (DF), Davies (DF), Brown (DF), Vaulks (MF), De Keersmaecker (MF), Prelec (MF), Romeny (MF), Leigh (MF), Harris (AT)

Oxford United are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Cumming in goal and a back four of Spencer, Helik, Davies, and Brown. This setup should provide a solid defensive base, allowing midfielders Vaulks and De Keersmaecker to anchor the midfield while supporting the attacking quartet of Prelec, Romeny, Leigh, and Harris.

• Predicted lineup: Bazunu (GK), Quarshie (DF), Harwood-Bellis (DF), Wood (DF), Welington (MF), Downes (MF), Jander (MF), Manning (MF), Azaz (MF), Scienza (MF), Armstrong (AT)

Southampton are predicted to use a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Bazunu between the posts and a back three of Harwood-Bellis, Wood, and Quarshie. This formation should enable them to dominate the midfield with Welington, Downes, Jander, and Manning, while Azaz and Scienza support the lone striker Armstrong up front.

• Harris vs Wood: Harris's pace and finishing will be tested against Wood's defensive solidity.

• Romeny vs Jander: Romeny's creativity in midfield will face a stern challenge from Jander's tenacity.

• Leigh (Oxford United): Leigh's versatility and work rate will be crucial for Oxford United's midfield control.

• Scienza (Southampton): Scienza's ability to link play and score goals will be key for Southampton's attacking threat.

Oxford United vs Southampton at 15:00 GMT on Friday, 26 December 2025 is being broadcast live for viewers in the UK on Sky Sports+

Coral is predicting that the score will be Oxford United 1-2 Southampton in this match

Coral is giving fans the ability to bet on various markets for Oxford United vs Southampton, including match betting, correct score and anytime scorer odds.

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.