Oxford United vs Southampton: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

Explore Ladbrokes' detailed preview for Oxford United vs Southampton in the Championship. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 15:00 GMT match.

• Fixture: Oxford United vs Southampton
• Date: Friday, 26 December 2025
• Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
• Venue: Kassam Stadium

Oxford United are coming off a tough run of form, with only one win in their last five matches. However, playing at home might give them the boost they need, especially with their predicted 4-2-3-1 formation that could exploit Southampton's defensive vulnerabilities. Harris up front will be crucial in converting any chances that come their way.

Southampton, on the other hand, have shown more consistency, securing two wins and a draw in their recent outings. Their 3-4-2-1 setup should provide a solid defensive base while allowing their attacking trio of Azaz, Scienza, and Armstrong to press forward. This match could be closely contested, but Southampton's recent form might just give them the edge.

Oxford United have struggled recently, managing only one win in their last five games. Their latest defeat was a 0-1 loss away to Charlton, which adds to the pressure as they face Southampton at home. Despite this, their victory against Ipswich at home could provide a glimmer of hope and some much-needed confidence.

Recent Championship Results:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Charlton (A)
• Loss: 1-2 vs Preston (H)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Blackburn (A)
• Loss: 0-2 vs Swansea (A)
• Win: 2-1 vs Ipswich (H)

Southampton have shown a more positive trend, with two wins, a draw, and two losses in their last five matches. Their most recent result was a 1-1 draw at home against Coventry, which suggests they can hold their own against tough opposition. On the whole, Southampton should enter this match with good momentum and confidence.

Recent Championship Results:

• Draw: 1-1 vs Coventry (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Norwich (A)

• Win: 3-2 vs West Brom (H)

• Win: 3-1 vs Birmingham (H)

• Loss: 2-3 vs Millwall (A)

These sides have never met in the Championship before so the upcoming match is a blank canvas. If current form is the main factor, Southampton will be favourites.

• Cameron Brannagan (Calf) - Out

  Matthew Phillips (Thigh) – Out

• Damion Downs (Knock) – Doubt

• Mads Roerslev (Knee) – Out

• Shea Charles (Hamstring) – Out

• Elias Jelert (Hip) – Doubt

• Ross Stewart (Hamstring) – Out

• Samuel Edozie (Hamstring) – Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Cumming (GK), Spencer (DF), Helik (DF), Davies (DF), Brown (DF), Vaulks (MF), De Keersmaecker (MF), Prelec (MF), Romeny (MF), Leigh (MF), Harris (AT)

Oxford United are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Vaulks and De Keersmaecker anchoring the midfield. This setup should allow them to control the midfield and feed the ball to Harris up front, who will be looking to exploit any gaps in Southampton's defence.

• Predicted lineup: Bazunu (GK), Quarshie (DF), Harwood-Bellis (DF), Wood (DF), Welington (MF), Downes (MF), Jander (MF), Manning (MF), Azaz (MF), Scienza (MF), Armstrong (AT)

Southampton's predicted 3-4-2-1 formation will see Welington and Manning providing width and support from the midfield. This setup should allow them to maintain a strong defensive structure while enabling their attacking trio of Azaz, Scienza, and Armstrong to press forward and create scoring opportunities.

• Harris vs Harwood-Bellis: Harris's pace and finishing will be tested against Harwood-Bellis's defensive solidity.

• De Keersmaecker vs Manning: De Keersmaecker's control in midfield will be crucial against Manning's dynamic play.

• Vaulks (Oxford United): Vaulks's experience and passing range will be vital in dictating Oxford United's tempo.

• Welington (Southampton): Welington's versatility and energy on the wing will be key for Southampton's attacking transitions.

Oxford United vs Southampton at 15:00 GMT on Friday, 26 December 2025 is being broadcast live for viewers in the UK on Sky Sports+

Ladbrokes is predicting that the score will be Oxford United 1-2 Southampton in this match

Ladbrokes is giving fans the ability to bet on various markets for Oxford United vs Southampton, including match betting, correct score and anytime scorer odds.

Ladbrokes 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.