EFL Championship: Game week 33
Stadium: Riverside Stadium
18th February 2023
On Saturday afternoon, Middlesbrough will host Queens Park Rangers in a match aimed at increasing pressure on Sheffield United, who currently hold the second spot in the automatic promotion race. Despite being seven points behind the Blades, Middlesbrough hopes to close the gap. Meanwhile, QPR, who have been performing poorly under the leadership of Neil Critchley, has dropped to the 17th position in the standings.
Claim Your Welcome Bonus!Middlesbrough’s Form
During recent matches, Boro has experienced moments where their momentum seemed to be slipping, especially during their visits to Cardiff City and Sheffield United. However, the team responded positively to being pushed back in South Wales, eventually winning 3-1, and then came from behind to achieve a crucial victory of the same scoreline against the Blades. The game at Bramall Lane was crucial, and goals from Chuba Akpom and Cameron Archer brought Boro closer to their direct rivals for second place. Michael Carrick has won 12 out of 17 matches as manager but acknowledges that his win ratio will need to improve if the team is to surpass their rivals and return to the Premier League. Akpom has scored 17 goals in the Championship so far this season, while Aston Villa loanee Archer has contributed three goals and two assists in just 377 minutes of play.
Middlesbrough’s possible starting lineup
Steffen; Smith, Fry, Lenihan, Giles; Howson, Hackney; Forss, Akpom, McGree; Archer
Queens Park Rangers’ Form
When Critchley was appointed as QPR's new head coach late last year, the team had hoped he would continue the positive momentum from Michael Beale's tenure. However, with only eight points collected from 10 matches in the second tier, Critchley is already under pressure at Loftus Road. Although it may seem harsh to replace him at this point, QPR's current position just nine points clear of the relegation zone is a far cry from their previous status as promotion candidates. The team faces tough upcoming fixtures against Rotherham United and Blackpool, making it crucial for Critchley to secure his second win soon. QPR has lost three of their last four games, with their only point earned from a match against struggling Huddersfield Town.
Queens Park Rangers’ predicted lineup
Dieng; Kakay, Dickie, Dunne, Paal; Field, Johansen, Iroegbunam, Chair; Lowe, Martin
Middlesbrough vs Queens Park Rangers expert tips
Having gained knowledge from past experiences in the Championship, it would be unwise to completely disregard the possibility of QPR causing an upset. Nevertheless, considering the current trajectories of the two clubs, it is highly likely that Boro will achieve another resounding win. We can expect more than 2.5 goals
Other predictions
