On Wednesday night, Cardiff City travels to Middlesbrough looking to clinch a victory that will move them within two points of the Championship playoff spots with kickoff at 9:45 pm.
At the start of April, everything looked set up for Middlesbrough to secure their highest finish in the English Football League since they were promoted to it in 1924.
However, despite having two points from five games, with a goal only netted in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Swansea City, Middlesbrough must win their remaining three fixtures to finish sixth. Wednesday’s contest feels like a tough ask, given the team’s issues in front of the goal.
Although Stoke and Preston North End will also be tough opponents, Middlesbrough might surprise everyone if they can come through these games successfully.
It was hoped that constant rotation with the front two would keep players fresh in the season’s closing stages, but it has only led to a lack of cohesion and rhythm since the four-goal salvo at Peterborough United on April 2.
It was not long ago that Cardiff played some of the best football in the league, yet they have now endured three consecutive defeats. Since taking over as manager, Steve Morison has had mixed results but will need to impress in the summer transfer market if he is to halt Cardiff’s decline.
Middlesbrough vs Cardiff City Head to Head
Both sides have 20 games against each other, with hosts taking eight wins while visitors with ten wins. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Swansea City 1-1 Middlesbrough
- Middlesbrough 0-2 Huddersfield
- Bournemouth 0-0 Middlesbrough
- Middlesbrough 0-1 Hull City
- Middlesbrough 0-1 Fulham
Away
- Sheffield United 1-0 Cardiff City
- Cardiff City 0-1 Luton Town
- Hull City 2-1 Cardiff City
- Reading 1-2 Cardiff City
- Cardiff City 0-4 Swansea City
Middlesbrough Team News
Despite Matt Crooks serving a suspension for 15 yellow cards, Wilder will likely consider naming the same starting XI. However, based on previous decisions, Andraz Sporar, Aaron Connolly and Folarin Balogun are all in contention for a recall in the final third.
Cardiff City Team News
Despite defeat at Sheffield United on Saturday, manager Neil Warnock may not make any changes to his Cardiff City starting lineup. Will Vaulks and Rubin Colwill appear most likely to be handed opportunities in midfield and a creative area.
Prediction and Odds
We expect an attacking game from Wilder’s men, who we think will edge it by a goal.
- Middlesbrough Win
- Goals Under 3.5
- Both Teams to Score
