Coventry City vs Middlesbrough Prediction: Coventry City has faced several challenges this seaso

Coventry City is set to host Middlesbrough on Sunday at the The Coventry Building Society Arena. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes? 

Coventry City has faced several challenges this season, including problems with their pitch, stadium, and ownership, which resulted in them spending the first couple of months in the relegation zone. Despite these difficulties, Mark Robins managed to lead the team to one of the most unexpected promotion bids in recent times. In fact, Coventry only lost one of their final 17 league games, securing fifth place in the standings.

Coventry entered the Monday fixture against Middlesbrough needing just a point to secure a possible playoff spot. The importance of the game was not lost on either side, given the potential for a playoff rematch. Although Coventry took the lead, they were pegged back just before half-time. However, Robins' team showed great character, securing a draw at the Riverside Stadium.

It remains to be seen whether this result and performance will have any bearing on the upcoming two-legged tie. Nevertheless, avoiding defeat at a stadium where Middlesbrough has typically dominated under Michael Carrick is a positive outcome for Coventry.

Wilson; McNally, McFadzean, Doyle; Norton-Cuffy, Hamer, Kelly, Eccles, Bidwell; Gyokeres, Godden

As it became clear that Middlesbrough could not secure an automatic promotion spot and only a top-four finish was possible, their performance began to deteriorate. Although Carrick had to deal with injuries, winning just two of their eight games is not ideal form heading into this stage of the season.

Similar to Coventry, Middlesbrough was in the relegation zone during the early weeks of the season. Carrick brought a remarkable upturn in results in his first permanent managerial role. However, despite scoring regularly, they have kept only one clean sheet in 11 games and have just the joint-11th best defensive record in the Championship since Carrick took over.

Steffen; Smith, McNair, Lenihan, Giles; Hackney, Mowatt; Jones, Akpom, McGree; Archer

Coventry seems to have more momentum going into the playoffs and will be confident of securing a victory in the first leg. However, we believe that Middlesbrough will regain their form and have the upper hand in the tie, thanks to their talented attacking players. Expect them to come away with a victory or a tie. Under 2.5 goals is expected in the game.