Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Despite it being only the beginning of the first leg, the clubs have already faced each other this season. Also at the Riverside, Middlesbrough suffered a humiliating 5:0 defeat in the League Cup in front of their fans. The players are undoubtedly eager for revenge, but will they get it?
Middlesbrough
Since that unfortunate match on August 27, Middlesbrough have not conceded more than one goal in a game. However, over the last three rounds, the team have only garnered four points, with the home draw against Preston North End being a clear missed opportunity: they converted one of their goal-scoring chances but squandered three others. Middlesbrough continue to lead the league in shots (17.7) and they are second from last in shots allowed (6.8), but their goal shortfall is ruining their efforts (6 goals with 11.43 xG).
Stoke City
For Stoke City, the defensive situation has worsened with each passing round since their last meeting. After a clean sheet win against Plymouth Argyle, they narrowly lost to Oxford United (0:1) on the road, and in the past round, they conceded three goals to Hull City, who had only scored five goals in the Championship up to that point. Adding to their fans' disappointment, Stoke City opened the scoring against Hull City, but their opponents converted three of their shots on target.
Middlesbrough vs Stoke City Prediction
Middlesbrough's finishing has been far from ideal, but considering the recent trends in both teams' performances, we see them taking revenge for the League Cup defeat.
