Preston North End vs Middlesbrough: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

• Middlesbrough backed to maintain their perfect start with a 2-1 win

• Preston's home form has been strong this season, with two wins from two

• Boro have conceded just one goal this season, so Preston's forwards will have to be at their best

Explore Coral’s detailed preview for Preston North End vs Middlesbrough in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 12:30 BST match.

• Fixture: Preston North End vs Middlesbrough

• Date: Saturday, 13 September 2025

• Kick-off: 12:30 BST

• Venue: Deepdale

Match Prediction: Preston North End 1-2 Middlesbrough

Preston North End will look to build on their recent home victories against Ipswich Town and Leicester City. Their solid defensive performances at home could pose a challenge for Middlesbrough, who have been in excellent form, winning their last four matches. The game might see Preston trying to exploit any Middlesbrough weaknesses, while Boro will aim to continue their winning streak with their potent attacking play.

Middlesbrough's recent run of victories, including impressive away wins against Norwich City and Millwall, suggests they are well-positioned to challenge Preston. However, Preston's resilience at home, as shown in their recent results, could make this a closely contested match. Expect a tactical battle where both teams will look to capitalise on their strengths, with Middlesbrough's attacking flair potentially making the difference.

Preston North End have shown a strong home form, winning their last two matches against Ipswich Town and Leicester City. These victories indicate a solid defensive setup and an ability to capitalise on home advantage. However, their recent away loss to Portsmouth suggests they might struggle if Middlesbrough can exploit any defensive weaknesses. This mixed form could lead to a cautious approach from Preston, focusing on maintaining a tight defence while looking for opportunities on the counter.

Recent Championship Results:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Portsmouth (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Ipswich Town (H)

• Win: 2-1 vs Leicester City (H)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Queens Park Rangers (A)

Middlesbrough come into this match on a high, having won their first four league games, including two away victories. This impressive run showcases their ability to perform under pressure and their strong attacking play. Their recent wins against teams like Sheffield United and Norwich City suggest they have the momentum and confidence to challenge Preston on home soil. Middlesbrough will likely approach the game with an aggressive mindset, aiming to continue their winning streak.

Recent Championship Results:

• Win: 1-0 vs Sheffield United (H)

• Win: 2-1 vs Norwich City (A)

• Win: 3-0 vs Millwall (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Swansea City (H)

Historically, games between these two teams have been closely contested, with both teams claiming two wins in the last five meetings, with the other game finishing in a draw. Preston North End won the most recent match 2-1 at Deepdale.

Recent Championship Results

• Preston North End 2-1 Middlesbrough (25 Jan 2025)

• Middlesbrough 1-1 Preston North End (14 Sep 2024)

• Preston North End 2-1 Middlesbrough (14 Feb 2024)

• Middlesbrough 4-0 Preston North End (28 Nov 2023)

• Middlesbrough 4-0 Preston North End (18 Mar 2023)

• Alfie Devine (Muscle) - Doubt

• Milutin Osmajic (Rib) - Doubt

• Bradley Potts (Muscle) - Doubt

• Robbie Brady (Calf) - Doubt

• Will Keane (Muscle) - Doubt

• Jordan Thompson (Leg) - Doubt

• Josh Seary (Knee) - Doubt

• Seny Dieng (Achilles Tendon) - Out

• Riley McGree (Muscle) - Doubt

• Alex Bangura (Hamstring) - Doubt

• Iversen, Storey, Gibson, Hughes, Valentín, Thórdarson, Whiteman, McCann, Small, Jebbison, Smith

Preston's predicted lineup suggests a focus on maintaining a solid defensive structure, with players like Storey and Hughes likely to be key in thwarting Middlesbrough's attacks. The inclusion of Smith and Small up front indicates an intent to exploit any defensive lapses from Middlesbrough on the counter.

Youngster Harrison Armstrong arrived at the club on loan from Everton during the late stages of the transfer window. He will be hoping for his North End debut in this clash.

• Brynn, Ayling, Fry, Jones, Brittain, Morris, Hackney, Silvera, Whittaker, Hansen, Conway

Middlesbrough's predicted lineup points to a strategy centred around their attacking prowess, with Whittaker and Silvera expected to be instrumental in breaking down Preston's defence. The presence of Hackney and Morris in midfield suggests a balanced approach, aiming to control the game's tempo while supporting the forwards.

Deadline-day signing, Slovakian forward David Strelec will be hoping for his first taste of action in a Boro shirt. Midfielder Alan Browne joined the north east club in a last-gasp deal from Sunderland, and will also be looking to feature for the first time for his new club.

• Daniel Jebbison vs Dael Fry: Jebbison's physical presence will be tested against Fry's defensive solidity.

• Ben Whiteman vs Morgan Whittaker: Whittaker's creativity will be crucial against Whiteman's midfield control.

• Daniel Iversen (Preston North End): His recent performances have been key to Preston's defensive resilience.

• Sam Silvera (Middlesbrough): His pace and finishing ability could be decisive in breaking down Preston's defence.

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