Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
In their last five matches, both clubs have mirrored each other with two wins, a draw, and two losses. Yet Middlesbrough find themselves just a point shy of the playoff spots, while Coventry City hover just above the relegation zone. Is this a game that could go either way?
Middlesbrough
Last weekend, Middlesbrough featured in their highest-scoring Championship game of the season, drawing 3:3 with Norwich City. Such goal-fests are unusual in their matches, which typically end with one or two goals, with a total under 2.5 occurring six times in their last eight matches. The team's wastefulness remains, although they created more opportunities than usual, registering 3.86 xG, while the hosts were more efficient with their chances, allowing only 1.10 xGA.
Coventry City
Coventry City mirrored their first home match scoreline against Oxford United with a 3:2 victory over Luton Town. Haji Wright netted the winner in the first minute of injury time. However, Coventry City are more reserved away from home, scoring a maximum of one goal and seeing a total under 2.5 in five out of six away fixtures. This minimalist approach has yielded just three points.
Middlesbrough vs Coventry City Prediction
This Saturday, we're unlikely to witness a five or six-goal thriller. The coaching staffs are expected to adapt accordingly, and the clubs will likely play to a traditionally low scoreline.
