Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Derby County's surprise win over Middlesbrough in the second round of the season marked the start of their climb towards mid-table. However, time has passed, and they have now slipped to the bottom of the standings, leading to the dismissal of their manager.
Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough will be desperate to avoid another defeat against Derby County, especially after finally snapping their five-game losing streak with a 3:1 win over fellow strugglers Stoke City. The game against Stoke City was their first since 23 November where they generated over 2 xG (2.28), though their last dominant attacking display was a 6:2 thrashing of Oxford United. Their three-goal haul against Stoke City was also their first since Boxing Day (3:3 against Sheffield Wednesday).
Derby County
John Eustace, a former Derby player, has now overseen two matches as manager, but things haven’t improved. They have suffered consecutive defeats—0:4 against Queens Park Rangers away and 0:1 against Millwall at home. Across both matches, they managed just one significant goalscoring opportunity and recorded a meagre 1.20 xG. Their total of 33 goals this season is the second-lowest in the Championship.
Middlesbrough vs Derby County Prediction
Even if Middlesbrough don’t score three goals—likely given their inconsistent attack—they should still secure a win. Derby County's attacking woes will make it difficult for them to pose a real threat. Middlesbrough will want to put the disappointment of their first-round defeat behind them with a solid performance.
