Southampton vs Middlesbrough: Predictions, Betting odds, Lineups, Preview

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

• Fixture: Southampton vs Middlesbrough

• Date: Saturday, 27 September 2025

• Kick-off: 15:00 BST

• Venue: St. Mary's Stadium

Match Prediction: Southampton 1-2 Middlesbrough

Southampton's recent form has been a bit of a rollercoaster, with more draws and losses than wins. They'll need to tighten up at the back after letting in three against Hull, but their attacking flair could cause problems for Middlesbrough.

On the other hand, Middlesbrough are coming into this match on a high, with a string of victories and solid performances. They'll look to control the game and exploit Southampton's defensive frailties.

This match could be a close one, with Middlesbrough's momentum potentially giving them the edge. Southampton might nick a goal, but Boro's recent form suggests they'll have the firepower to secure the win.

Southampton have had a tough run lately, having failed to win in their last five league games. Their defence has been leaky, conceding three against Hull and two against Watford. This could be a concern against a confident Middlesbrough side. However, their ability to score in most games shows they can still pose a threat going forward.

With Flynn Downes doubtful due to an injury, Southampton will need to find a way to compensate for his potential absence in midfield. If they can shore up their defence and capitalise on their attacking talent, they might just pull off a surprise result.

• Loss: 1-3 vs Hull City (A)

• Draw: 0-0 vs Portsmouth (H)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Watford (A)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Stoke City (H)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Ipswich Town (A)

Middlesbrough are in fine fettle, winning four out of their last five league matches. Their defence has been solid, keeping clean sheets against Sheffield United and Millwall. This form will give them confidence going into this game against a struggling Southampton side.

With Riley McGree out injured, Middlesbrough will need to rely on their other attacking options to keep their winning streak alive. If they can maintain their defensive solidity and continue their scoring form, they should be able to secure another victory.

• Win: 2-1 vs West Bromwich Albion (H)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Preston North End (A)

• Win: 1-0 vs Sheffield United (H)

• Win: 2-1 vs Norwich City (A)

• Win: 3-0 vs Millwall (A)

The head-to-head record in the Championship between these two teams is closely contested, with Middlesbrough winning two of the last four meetings, while Southampton has claimed one victory, and one game has ended in a draw. Middlesbrough have won two of the previous three encounters, including a 2-1 victory in September 2023. However, Southampton did manage a 3-0 win back in 2011, showing they can cause an upset on their day.

• Southampton 1-1 Middlesbrough (29 Mar 2024)

• Middlesbrough 2-1 Southampton (23 Sep 2023)

• Middlesbrough 2-1 Southampton (21 Apr 2012)

• Southampton 3-0 Middlesbrough (29 Oct 2011)

• Welington (Ankle) - Out

• Samuel Edozie (Knock) - Doubt

• Flynn Downes (Illness) - Doubt

• Riley McGree (Hamstring) - Out

• Dael Fry (Calf) - Out

• George Edmundson (Eye) - Out

• Seny Dieng (Achilles) - Out

• Alex Bangura (Hamstring) - Out

• Darragh Lenihan (Muscle) Doubt

• Predicted lineup: Bazunu, Roerslev, Harwood-Bellis, Stephens, Manning, Jander, Charles, Fellows, Azaz, Fraser, Armstrong

Southampton's predicted lineup suggests they'll look to balance their defence with attacking options. With Downes a doubt, they'll need Charles and Azaz to step up in midfield to control the game.

• Predicted lineup: Brynn, Ayling, Lenihan (If fit), Jones, Brittain, Hackney, Morris, Targett, Conway, Nypan, Strelec

Middlesbrough's predicted lineup indicates they'll stick with the solid defensive unit that has served them well recently. Their attacking players, like Conway and Strelec, will be key to breaking down Southampton's defence.

• Roerslev vs Targett: A crucial battle on Southampton’s right flank that could determine which team gains the upper hand.

• Fraser vs Nypan: These two creative players will be looking to unlock the opposition defence with their skill and vision.

• Stephens (Southampton): The defender will need to be at his best to keep Middlesbrough's attackers at bay.

• Conway (Middlesbrough): His recent form suggests he could be the difference-maker in this match.

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