Middlesbrough vs Stoke prediction 30.09.2025 | Championship

Since relegation from the Premier League, Middlesbrough has participated in the promotion playoff in only two seasons. The team from Riverside Stadium exceeded expectations for the 2025/26 season so far, as they are currently at the top of the standings with four points more than the following teams on the table, Coventry and Stoke. Middlesbrough's only defeat in the season came in the EFL Cup against Doncaster. After that, Rob Edwards' team is undefeated in six matches in a row. In the previous game, Middlesbrough played 1-1 on the road against Southampton. The home side was better, but the guests once again found a way to stay undefeated. 

Southampton are impressive at the Riverside Stadium this season so far, as they have won all three matches. Middlesbrough have allowed only one goal at home this season, and limiting opponents' opportunities will be the goal on Tuesday, too. 

Middlesbrough have some problems with injuries ahead of Tuesday. They will be without Dael Fry, Darragh Lenihan, and Riley McGree. 

For seven years in a row, Stoke ended in the lower half of the Championship. Anything different wasn't expected this season, but the Potterrs collected 13 points in the opening seven league rounds and are currently in the promotion playoff zone. However, Stoke's form is far from excellent as they have won only one of their last five matches in all competitions. In the previous game, Stoke played 1-1 at home against Norwich. The home side surely deserved more as they ended the match with 58% ball possession and 16 shots on the goal, more than the guests.

Stoke failed to beat Norwich, but the manager, Mark Robbins, was still pleased. He said, "That is probably the most dominant we have been in games this season. They were hanging on; the only downside was that we didn't take the three points. I thought we worked really hard; it's just the fine details we need to tighten up in the final third. We have had a lot of chances to go out and win the game."

Stoke could have a full squad for the Tuesday game, as Sam Gallagher is questionable, and he could recover on time. The rest of the team is available.