Middlesbrough vs West Bromwich Albion Prediction: Middlesbrough has a slight advantage going into the game

Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion will be kicking off their 2022-23 campaign at Riverside Stadium in game week one of the EFL Championship. Will we see another dominating performance by Middlesbrough as we have seen historically or will we see an inspired performance from West Brom?

Middlesbrough is coming off a good pre-season with them winning four out of five games. They lost one of the games against Braga, however, their last game was an astounding 3-0 win over Morecambe. The key signing of Marcus Forss will be an important factor in deciding their season. They will be looking to start the campaign on the right note. 

Joe Lumley (GK); Anfernee Dijksteel, Dael Fry, Paddy McNair; Isaiah Jones, Matt Crooks, Jonny Howson, Chuba Akpom, Neil Taylor; Marcus Forss, Duncan Whitemore

West Brom finished 10th last season and will be looking to get better. They are going into the season as a dark horse and can be one of the contenders for the title. They started the season well last time around but lost their steam in between. West Brom has the opportunity to start the fresh season on a positive note and challenge for the title once again. 

David Button (GK); Matt Clarke, Semi Ajayi, Cedric Kipre; Darnell Furlong, Jayson Molumby, Alex Mowatt, Conor Townsend; Karlan Grant, Adam Reach; Rayhan Tullock

• In the last eight meetings between these two sides, West Brom has won only one time;
• Middlesbrough has won only two of the last 21 opening day fixtures.

We are expecting a high tempo attacking game as we have seen historically between these two sides. A lot of goals are expected from the game. The two teams are challenging for the promotion this season which could see a fierse battle to be played out in the first game of the season. We are expecting a Middlesbrough win as they have recent history on their side. 

• Middlesbrough to win for 2.23;
• Total Over 2 for 1.61;
• Team 1 Total Over 1.25 for 1.96