The EFL Championship returns with an electrifying Friday night showdown as table-toppers Middlesbrough host West Bromwich Albion at the Riverside Stadium. This is a crucial early-season clash between two teams with genuine promotion ambitions, setting the stage for a compelling encounter.
Match Details:
CompetitionDateKick-off (GMT)VenueEFL ChampionshipSeptember 19, 20257:00 PMRiverside Stadium, Middlesbrough, England
Team Form and Analysis:
Middlesbrough has made an excellent start to their campaign, currently sitting at the top of the Championship table with 13 points from a possible 15. The hosts are coming off a hard-fought 2-2 away draw against Preston North End, a result that ended their 100% winning streak but showcased their resilience by twice coming from behind. Under manager Rob Edwards, Middlesbrough has been a force to be reckoned with, boasting the joint-best defensive record in the division with just three goals conceded and a potent attack that has seen seven different players get on the scoresheet. However, they will be without key players like Seny Dieng, Alex Bangura, and Riley McGree due to injury.
West Bromwich Albion, meanwhile, has also had a strong start to their season, currently sitting in fifth place with 10 points. The visitors are coming off a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to Derby County, a result that ended their unbeaten start. Under new manager Ryan Mason, West Brom has been a well-organized side, particularly on the road, where they have won their last two away matches. The Baggies will be looking for a reaction and a statement victory to close the gap on the league leaders. They will be without key players like Daryl Dike and Tammer Bany Odeh due to injury.
Head-to-Head:
The historical head-to-head record between these two clubs is in favor of Middlesbrough. In their last 26 competitive meetings, Middlesbrough has won 11, West Brom has won 8, and 7 have ended in a draw. Middlesbrough has also won each of their last three league meetings with West Brom without conceding a single goal.
Player to Watch:
Middlesbrough: All eyes will be on their key attacking players, particularly new signing Tommy Conway and winger Morgan Whittaker. Conway is the only player to have scored twice this season, while Whittaker, despite being criticized by some fans, remains a vital part of the team’s attack.
West Bromwich Albion: The focus for West Brom will be on their attacking players, particularly Isaac Price, who has been their most prolific goalscorer this season, and winger Michael Johnston, who has been a creative force in the final third.
Prediction:
Given Middlesbrough’s excellent recent form, their home advantage, and their dominant historical record against West Brom, they are the clear favorites to win this match. While West Brom will be highly motivated to secure their first points in the competition, it is difficult to see them overcoming the quality of the Middlesbrough team, especially on their home turf. A comfortable home victory for Middlesbrough seems like a very likely outcome.
Live Stream and TV Broadcast:
You can watch the Middlesbrough vs West Bromwich Albion match live on the following platforms, subject to availability in your region:
UK: Sky Sports, Sky Go App
USA: ESPN+
Canada: DAZN
India: JioTV
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