Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
By the end of the first leg, Oxford United have finally claimed a "deserved" place at the bottom of the table, given their budget constraints. Cardiff City have lingered near the bottom as well. Now they find themselves level on points (18) and both in the relegation zone.
Oxford United
The drop has been significant, falling 16 places (from 7th to 23rd) over the course of 17 rounds (from the 6th to the 22nd). Notably, Oxford United have not played their 19th-round match against Plymouth Argyle, which could have been an opportunity to gain points. They struggle with scoring, averaging just one goal per game, much like other teams at the bottom. When they were mid-table, their defence was tighter: conceding 0.67 per game in September, 1.4 in October, and 2.2 by November. December has been even worse, allowing 3 goals every 90 minutes.
Cardiff City
Cardiff City have been consistent in their defensive lapses, conceding exactly two goals in each of their last five matches—not an average, but a reality. Among the top sides they've faced recently was Sheffield United (0:2). As a result, they’ve been oscillating between 20th and 22nd places for nine rounds. It doesn’t help having seven injured players and constantly changing field combinations.
Oxford United vs Cardiff City Prediction
Sometimes Cardiff City's opponents' defences are resolute, resulting in matches with a total under 2.5, but not in this case. Oxford United will concede plenty at the back, but they'll also score a routine goal, so we suggest betting on the total over 2.5.
