Norwich City vs Coventry City Prediction: Both aiming for playoffs spots

Norwich City will welcome Coventry City at Carrow Road in Game Week 30 of the English Championship. Both are aiming for playoffs spots with only three points between these teams. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes?

After Jurgen Klopp's announcement that he will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season, David Wagner may have been concerned about his Norwich side facing them in the FA Cup fourth round. Unfortunately, his fears were confirmed with a 5-2 defeat at Anfield. However, it was a positive sign for Norwich to score twice against the Premier League leaders. In contrast, their recent league performances have seen them suffer three consecutive 1-0 defeats, and they have struggled to score more than two goals in a single game for the past eight league fixtures. On a brighter note, Norwich's wins against Hull City and West Bromwich Albion in January have kept them competitive in the playoff race. Despite a recent loss against Leeds United, Norwich remains in the top 10 and has not lost at Carrow Road since November 5. Nevertheless, they now face a strong Coventry team that is currently on a 12-match unbeaten streak in all competitions. Wagner may revert back to the majority of the team that started against Leeds on January 24, after tinkering with his Norwich XI in the previous outing. Ashley Barnes and Christian Fassnacht are potential options to be included in the team in creative roles, replacing Borja Sainz.

The possible starting lineup for Norwich City could consist of Gunn in goal, with Stacey, Duffy, Gibson, and Giannoulis in defense. Nunez and McLean may start in midfield, while Rowe, Sara, and Sainz could be in attacking positions alongside Sargent up front.

Coventry's only defeat in their last 16 games was against Ipswich Town, and they have been in excellent form under Mark Robins. They have collected 17 points out of a possible 21 since December 23, and their resilience was evident in the late equalizer they earned against Bristol City on Tuesday. Despite their upcoming FA Cup replay against Sheffield Wednesday and a potential match against Maidstone United, Robins recognizes the opportunity presented by their favorable schedule against teams outside the top nine until March.

Coventry suffered an injury setback when Ben Sheaf was forced off against Bristol City, leading to Victor Torp being the likely replacement in midfield. Ellis Simms may also be chosen over Matt Godden after scoring a goal in the previous match. Joel Latibeaudiere is also a possibility at right-back or centre-back if the manager decides to make further changes to the squad.

For Coventry City, Collins may start as the goalkeeper, with Van Ewijk, Thomas, Kitching, and Bidwell forming the defensive line. Eccles and Torp could feature in midfield, while Sakamoto, O'Hare, and Palmer may play as attacking midfielders. Simms could be given the nod as the lone striker.

Although Coventry is on a good run of form, there is an argument to suggest that they are the favorites to win. However, Norwich should be praised for their perseverance in the playoff race, and we predict that they will do enough to secure a draw in a highly competitive match.