Middlesbrough vs Southampton - Championship Match

Middlesbrough vs Southampton Preview: Championship Clash

Middlesbrough will host Southampton at Riverside Stadium on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 18:00 UTC in what promises to be an exciting Championship encounter. Both sides will be looking to secure all three points as they continue their campaign this season.

Current Form & Recent Results

Middlesbrough have struggled for consistency lately, managing just 1 win from 5 games while suffering 3 defeats. They'll be eager to turn their fortunes around.

Southampton have struggled for consistency lately, managing just 0 wins from 5 games while suffering 2 defeats. They'll be eager to turn their fortunes around.

Head-to-Head Record

The head-to-head record is evenly balanced between these two sides, with Middlesbrough winning 6, Southampton winning 6, and 6 matches ending in draws from their last 18 encounters.

Expected Tactics & Formations

Middlesbrough are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, while Southampton will likely deploy a 3-4-2-1 system. The tactical battle between these two setups could prove decisive in determining the outcome.

Match Officials

O. Langford will be the referee for this fixture.

Match Prediction & Analysis

With home advantage and strong recent form, Middlesbrough will be the clear favorites heading into this match. However, Southampton cannot be written off entirely and could pose problems on the counter-attack. Expect the hosts to dominate possession and create the better chances.

Key Facts

• Kick-off: Sunday, January 4, 2026, 18:00 UTC
• Venue: Riverside Stadium
• Competition: Championship
• Middlesbrough Position: 2nd (46 pts)
• Southampton Position: 15th (33 pts)
• H2H Record (Last 18): Middlesbrough 6W - 6D - 6W Southampton
• Referee: O. Langford