Bristol City 1-3 Oxford United: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral’s post-match review of Bristol City 1-3 Oxford United in the Championship on Sunday, 21 September 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Bristol City's home defeat to Oxford United, ending 1-3, was a surprising result given their recent form. The Robins had secured two consecutive wins before this match, including a convincing 3-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday. However, Oxford United capitalised on their opportunities, with Nik Prelec opening the scoring in the 19th minute and Przemysław Płacheta adding another just before halftime. Despite Anis Mehmeti pulling one back for Bristol City in the 53rd minute, Brian De Keersmaecker's late goal in the 90th minute sealed the win for Oxford, ending Bristol City's winning streak.

The match saw Bristol City struggle to convert their possession into goals, a stark contrast to their previous performances. Oxford United, on the other hand, showed resilience and clinical finishing, which was crucial in securing their victory. This result will be a setback for Bristol City, who had been building momentum, while Oxford United will take confidence from this win as they look to climb the Championship table.

The statistics from the match highlight a discrepancy between possession and the final scoreline. Bristol City dominated possession with 58% compared to Oxford United's 42%, yet they were unable to translate this into a favorable result. The Robins also had more corners, with eight to Oxford's five, indicating they had more opportunities to create scoring chances. However, Oxford United's efficiency in front of goal, evidenced by their 100% successful dribbles compared to Bristol City's 20%, played a significant role in their victory.

The disciplinary aspect of the game also favored Oxford United, as they received only one yellow card compared to Bristol City's four. This suggests that Oxford managed the game well, maintaining composure while Bristol City appeared more frustrated. The late goal by Brian De Keersmaecker in injury time further underscores Oxford's ability to capitalise on crucial moments, which ultimately decided the match.

The key moments of the match began with Nik Prelec's goal for Oxford United in the 19th minute, setting the tone for the visitors. This early strike put Bristol City on the back foot, and they struggled to regain control. Just before halftime, Przemysław Płacheta doubled Oxford's lead, a crucial moment that gave them a comfortable cushion going into the break. These goals were pivotal in shaping the outcome of the game.

Bristol City's response came in the 53rd minute when Anis Mehmeti scored, reigniting hopes of a comeback. However, the momentum shifted back to Oxford United when Brian De Keersmaecker scored in the 90th minute, sealing the victory. This late goal was particularly significant as it came during injury time, leaving Bristol City with no time to respond. The substitutions made by both teams, including George Tanner's early exit for Bristol City and Stanley Mills' introduction for Oxford, also influenced the game's dynamics.

Bristol City lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Radek Vitek in goal and a back three of Zak Vyner, Rob Dickie, and Rob Atkinson. The midfield was anchored by Jason Knight and Adam Randell, with Mark Sykes and Ross McCrorie providing width. Scott Twine and Anis Mehmeti supported striker Emil Riis. The lineup was largely expected, with no major surprises.

The impact of substitutions was mixed for Bristol City. George Tanner was substituted early in the 15th minute, possibly due to injury, which may have disrupted their defensive structure. Anis Mehmeti's goal was a highlight, but the team's inability to capitalise on their possession and create more scoring opportunities was evident. The late substitutions of Fally Mayulu and Sinclair Armstrong did not change the game's outcome, as Oxford United held firm.

Oxford United opted for a 4-4-2 formation, with Jamie Cumming in goal and a back four of Brodie Spencer, Michal Helik, Sam Long, and Jack Currie. The midfield was controlled by Przemysław Płacheta, Brian De Keersmaecker, Cameron Brannagan, and Filip Krastev, with Nik Prelec and Will Lankshear leading the attack. This lineup was well-balanced and effective in exploiting Bristol City's weaknesses.

The substitutions made by Oxford United were timely and impactful. Stanley Mills and Will Vaulks came on in the 72nd minute, followed by Siriki Dembele a minute later, adding fresh legs and tactical flexibility. Brian De Keersmaecker's late goal was a testament to his performance and the team's ability to maintain pressure until the final whistle. The lineup and substitutions played a crucial role in securing the victory for Oxford United.

Brian De Keersmaecker is Coral’s Man of the Match, and his performance justified this accolade. He scored a crucial goal in the 90th minute, which sealed the victory for Oxford United. Additionally, De Keersmaecker provided an assist and created one big chance, showcasing his ability to influence the game in multiple ways. His five key passes further highlight his pivotal role in Oxford's attacking play.

• Loss: 1-3 vs Oxford United (H)

• Win: 3-0 vs Sheffield Wednesday (A)

• Win: 4-2 vs Hull City (H)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Derby County (A)

• Win: 3-1 vs Bristol City (A)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Leicester City (H)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Coventry City (H)

• Loss: 0-1 vs Birmingham City (A)

Bristol City, now sitting in 3rd place with 11 points, will face Preston North End, who are also on 11 points in 5th place, on September 27, 2025 at 14:00. This result against Oxford United may prompt Bristol City to reassess their approach, focusing on converting possession into goals and maintaining discipline on the pitch. A win against Preston could help them regain momentum and solidify their position in the top tier of the Championship.

Oxford United, currently in 21st place with 5 points, will take on Sheffield United on September 27, 2025 at 14:00. This victory against Bristol City will boost their confidence as they prepare to face a struggling Sheffield United side. Oxford will look to build on this performance, aiming to climb the table and secure more points in their upcoming matches.

• West Brom Vs Leicester City

• Coventry Vs Birmingham

• Wrexham Vs Derby County

• Swansea Vs Millwall

• Ipswich Town Vs Portsmouth

• Charlton Vs Blackburn Rovers

• Southampton Vs Middlesbrough

• Sheffield Wednesday Vs QPR

• Stoke City Vs Norwich City

• Preston Vs Bristol City

• Watford vs Hull City

• Oxford Utd Vs Sheffield United

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.