Southampton vs West Bromwich Albion Prediction 17.05.2024

• Competition: Championship
• Date: 17.05.2024
• Kickoff: 20:00 UK / 21:00 CEST
• Venue: St. Mary's Stadium (Southampton)

Just like in the second semi-final match of the playoff semi-final, the first clash between West Brom and Southampton ended without goals.

Similar to Leeds, Southampton also had a big drop in form at the end of the season, which ultimately cost them the fight for second position in the table and direct placement in the Premier League. Despite that, they are still one of the two main favorites to reach their goal through the barrage. The first semi-final match against WBA, played at Hawthrons Stadium, took place in a rather cautious game of both teams. Due to the importance of the match, this was probably expected, so the question of the winner will be resolved in the second leg. Both teams had a modest number of opportunities, so a draw was probably the fairest result.

Southampton vs WBA pick: SOUTHAMPTON TO WIN

Championship playoff matches can often be specific and unpredictable, and often outsiders are able to surprise and beat better teams than themselves. Southampton is undoubtedly a better team than their opponent, but of course need to prove that. In the first match, Southampton controlled the pace and perhaps consciously played for a draw, knowing that they will have the role of favorites in the rematch on their home field. During the season, West Brom won points mainly on good defensive effort, but it has betrayed them in the last couple of weeks. In terms of the number of points won away from home West Brom are in the bottom half of the league with only 26 points won in 23 matches played. They would need to play probably the best match of the season in order to pull off a surprise in this match, which is unlikely at this point.

Southampton is simply a better and more experienced team, so we expect home team win in 2nd leg.