QPR v Preston: Match Preview, Odds, Lineups, Prediction

Read Coral's in-depth matchday 1 preview for QPR vs Preston in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 15:00 BST match.

• Fixture: QPR vs Preston

• Date: Saturday, 09 August 2025

• Kick-off: 15:00 BST

• Venue: MATRADE Loftus Road

The match between QPR and Preston is poised to be a closely contested affair. QPR's ability to secure victories against Preston in their recent encounters suggests they may have the psychological edge going into this match. Their play style, characterised by a strong defensive setup and quick counter-attacks, could pose significant challenges for Preston. 

Preston's recent pre-season form has not been great, as they are winless in three games. However, one of those games was against reigning English champions Liverpool. 

Given the historical context and the teams' current form, the game could hinge on moments of individual brilliance or defensive lapses. QPR's home advantage may play a crucial role, potentially allowing them to capitalise on any mistakes made by Preston. 

However, Preston's ability to stay in games and capitalise on set pieces could keep them in contention until the final whistle. The match promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams likely to approach it with caution and respect for their opponent's capabilities.

Match Prediction: QPR 1-0 Preston

QPR's recent form has been a mixed bag, with the team showing flashes of brilliance interspersed with periods of inconsistency. Their ability to secure victories against strong opponents, such as Preston, in recent head-to-head encounters suggests a team that can rise to the occasion when it matters most. This resilience could be a significant factor in this encounter, as they aim to capitalise on their home advantage and sustain their momentum against a familiar foe.

Recent Championship Results:

• (W) 1-0 at Sunderland (03 May 2025)

•  (L)   0-5 at home against Burnley (26 Apr 2025)

•  (L)  1-2 at home against Swansea City (21 Apr 2025)

•  (W) 2-1 at Preston (18 Apr 2025)

•  (D)  1-1 at home against Bristol City (12 Apr 2025)

Preston has demonstrated a commendable level of consistency in their recent performances, often securing points against tough opposition. Their ability to stay competitive in matches, even when not at their best, speaks to a team with strong character and tactical nous. This resilience will be crucial as they face QPR, a team they have struggled against in recent meetings, and they will need to find a way to break their losing streak against the London side.

Recent Championship Results:

• (D) 2-2 at Bristol City (03 May 25)

• (L) 1-2 defeat at home against Plymouth (26 Apr 25)

• (L) 1-2 defeat at Hull City (21 Apr 25)

• (L) 1-2 defeat at home against QPR (18 Apr 25)

• (L) 1-2 defeat at Leeds United (12 Apr 25)

Historically, QPR have had the upper hand in recent encounters with Preston, securing victory in four out of the last five matches. This trend could provide QPR with a psychological boost as they look to continue their dominance over Preston in this upcoming fixture.

Recent Championship Results

• Preston 1-2 QPR (18 Apr 2025)

• QPR 2-1 Preston (21 Dec 2024)

• QPR 1-0 Preston (20 Apr 2024)

• Preston 0-2 QPR (01 Dec 2023)

• QPR 0-2 Preston (07 Apr 2023)

• Jake Clarke-Salter (Hip injury) - Doubtful 

• Zan Celar (Hamstring injury) - Doubtful

• Josh Seary (Knee injury) - Doubtful

• 4-2-3-1: Walsh; Dunne, Mbengue, Cook, Larkeche; Field, Morgan; Smyth, Dembélé, Poku; Chair

QPR's predicted line-up suggests a focus on maintaining a solid defensive structure while looking to exploit counter-attacking opportunities. The inclusion of key players in the midfield and attack indicates an intent to control the tempo and capitalise on any defensive lapses from Preston.

• 4-2-3-1: Iversen; Valentin, Storey, Gibson, Hughes; Whiteman, McCann; Brady, Frokjaer-Jensen, Keane; Jebbison

Preston's predicted line-up hints at a strategy centred around a disciplined defensive approach, with an emphasis on set-piece threats. The selection of experienced players in crucial positions suggests a game plan designed to frustrate QPR and capitalise on any mistakes.

• Sam Field (QPR) vs Ben Whiteman (Preston): This midfield duel could significantly impact the game's flow, with both players vital to their teams' chances of victory.

• Steve Cook (QPR) vs Jordan Storey (Preston): The battle between these two defenders will be crucial, as they look to neutralise each other's attacking threats.

• Ilias Chair (QPR): His creativity and vision could be the key to unlocking Preston's defence.

• Daniel Jebbison (Preston): The forward on loan from Sheffield United will be looking to make his mark on his Championship debut for North End.

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