Middlesbrough FC vs Bristol City FC Prediction: Middlesbrough to win the game

In a pivotal Championship match on Saturday afternoon, Middlesbrough will host Bristol City at Riverside Stadium in an attempt to fulfil their aspirations of finishing in the top six for back-to-back campaigns. Marcus Forss, a Finnish forward, gave Middlesbrough the lead against Michael Beale's Sunderland with a skilful half-volley, his third goal in as many Championship games since returning from injury. However, the hosts at the Riverside were unable to cling on for maximum points. With Chuba Akpom leaving for Dutch powerhouse Ajax in the summer, Michael Carrick's team is severely lacking a vicious centre forward. Sam Greenwood, a natural wide player, did his best to lead the line during Sunderland's draw last weekend.

Away from the grind of second-tier football, Bristol City travelled to the City Ground to play an FA Cup fourth-round replay against Premier League-struggling Nottingham Forest. Despite controlling much of the game, Liam Manning's team was eliminated. From this point until the end of the season, Bristol City's primary concern should be their Championship fortunes. The West Country team has gone six games without a league victory.

Which team can return to winning ways in week 31 of the English Championship?

Middlesbrough FC

Michael Carrick's team will go into the weekend hoping to defeat the visitors and go back to winning ways after losing the previous four encounters between the two teams. Middlesbrough's 1-1 draw with Sunderland on Sunday was another setback in their quest for a postseason berth. This followed their devastating 6-1 loss to Chelsea in the second leg of their EFL Cup semifinal match, which ended their run of three straight victories on January 23. Middlesbrough is now tied for 12th position in the Championship standings with 41 points from 29 games, with Watford coming in at 11 points apiece.

Bristol City FC

Bristol City's FA Cup campaign came to an end on Wednesday as they lost their fourth-round replay match against Nottingham Forest on penalties. On February 2, the Robins' four-game winning streak came to an end when they lost 1-0 at home to Leeds United in the Championship.

Bristol City is presently 14th in the league rankings with 38 points from 30 games, three points and two spots below this weekend's hosts.

Expert Betting Tips

The Boros should be optimistic about picking up three points on Saturday because, except for their 6-1 hammering at the hands of Chelsea in the EFL Cup, Middlesbrough has probably created the opportunity to win all of their recent games.

While Bristol City performed a commendable job forcing their premier league rivals to penalty kicks on Wednesday night, we think the Bristols' winless streak will continue at the Riverside.