Portsmouth vs Middlesbrough: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Portsmouth's recent form has been inconsistent, with only one victory in their last five games. Their home performances have been reasonably good, managing to draw against Watford and win against Preston. However, losses against Ipswich Town and Sheffield Wednesday highlight their struggles to secure wins.

This inconsistency could impact their confidence going into the match against Middlesbrough, but their resilience at home might give them a fighting chance.

• Draw: 2-2 vs Watford (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Ipswich Town (A)

• Loss: 0-2 vs Sheffield Wednesday (H)

• Draw: 0-0 vs Southampton (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Preston North End (H)

Middlesbrough have shown a more consistent form, with two wins and three draws in their recent matches. Their ability to secure points against tough opponents like Southampton and West Brom demonstrates their resilience.

This solid run of form could boost their confidence as they travel to face Portsmouth. However, their away performances have been less convincing, which might be a concern for them in this fixture.

• Draw: 0-0 vs Stoke City (H)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Southampton (A)

• Win: 2-1 vs West Bromwich Albion (H)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Preston North End (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Sheffield United (H)

The head-to-head record between Portsmouth and Middlesbrough shows a closely contested rivalry. In their most recent encounter, Portsmouth secured a 2-1 victory at home, while their previous meeting ended in a 2-2 draw. Historically, the matches have been competitive, with three encounters resulting in draws. This suggests that the upcoming match could be another tight affair.

• Portsmouth 2-1 Middlesbrough (18 Jan 2025)

• Middlesbrough 2-2 Portsmouth (24 Aug 2024)

• Portsmouth 1-3 Middlesbrough (03 Mar 2012)

• Middlesbrough 2-2 Portsmouth (06 Aug 2011)

• Portsmouth 0-0 Middlesbrough (12 Mar 2011)

• Franco Umeh (Leg) - Doubt

• Josh Murphy (Ankle) - Doubt

• Thomas Waddingham (Hip) - Doubt

• Nicolas Schmid (Hand) - Doubt

• Conor Shaughnessy (Hamstring) - Doubt

• Callum Lang (Hamstring) - Doubt

• Darragh Lenihan (Ankle) - Doubt

• Riley McGree (Unknown) - Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Bursik, Williams, Knight, Poole, Ogilvie, Peck, Dozzell, Chaplin, Swift, Yang Min-Hyeok, Bishop

Portsmouth's predicted lineup suggests a focus on maintaining a solid defensive structure while relying on the creativity of Swift and Chaplin to unlock Middlesbrough's defence. The inclusion of Yang and Bishop indicates an intent to press high and exploit any defensive lapses from the visitors.

• Predicted lineup: Brynn, Ayling, Edmundson, Jones, Targett, Hackney, Browne, Morris, Nypan, Strelec, Conway

Middlesbrough's predicted lineup points towards a balanced approach, with Edmundson and Jones providing defensive stability and Strelec and Conway offering attacking threats. Their midfield, anchored by Browne and Morris, will be crucial in controlling the tempo and disrupting Portsmouth's rhythm.

• Yang Min-Hyeok vs Luke Ayling: This duel will see Portsmouth's forward Yang looking to outmaneuvre Middlesbrough's experienced defender Ayling.

• Regan Poole vs David Strelec: The battle between Portsmouth centre-back Poole and Middlesbrough striker Strelec could be pivotal in determining which team gains control of the game.

• Andre Dozzell (Portsmouth): Dozzell’s role in midfield will be vital for Portsmouth, as his ability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively could be key to their success.

• Alan Browne (Middlesbrough): Browne’s dynamic presence in midfield for Middlesbrough will be crucial, as his ability to shield the defence and initiate attacks could dictate their performance.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.