Championship, Round 45
QPR-Leeds (26/04/24, h20:00 CET)
Lyndon Dykes' goal in the first half seals QPR's victory over Preston (1-0), putting a serious claim on safety. "I'll sleep well tonight, but the job isn't done yet," says Coach Cifuentes, keeping focus high. Rangers are +4 from the third-last spot with 2 games left: it's almost there. However, it'll be tough to secure against the stronger Leeds, who, after a mini-crisis, resolved to win against Middlesbrough (3-4). Farke's boys play under pressure, and the coach asks the fans "to believe in the Premier League as we do." Interestingly, both teams have had a mirrored trend in their recent games. QPR has already narrowly defeated Leeds away, so a similar outcome is expected, though the match seems poised for either a draw or an away win without many goals.
Blackburn-Coventry
Despite Szmodics' usual performance (now leading with 25 goals), Blackburn stumbled against Sheffield away (1-3). "We fell apart too early; it's crucial to regroup for Saturday," warns Coach Eustace. With 49 points, Blackburn aims to secure safety at Ewood Park. They might capitalize on Coventry's recent struggles, especially after their FA Cup exit to Manchester United and a series of losses in the league. Although Blackburn has the motivation, Coventry has the technical edge, indicating both teams could score.
Bristol-Rotherham
A good point earned against Norwich (1-1) extends Bristol's unbeaten run to six. The focus now is to "finish strong at home, highlighting our progress this season," says Liam Manning. Rotherham, already relegated and struggling to score, provides an opportunity for Bristol to win comfortably, provided they stick to the game plan.
Cardiff-Middlesbrough
In a comeback victory (2-1), Cardiff dashes Southampton's hopes of direct promotion. With momentum building, the question now shifts to the future of Coach Bulut. A win at home could propel Cardiff up the table. Middlesbrough, despite their recent defeat, remains experimental yet competitive, aiming for at least a draw or an away win.
Huddersfield-Birmingham
A nightmare at John Smith's Stadium sees Huddersfield's defeat to Swansea (0-4), leaving them second from bottom. An epic effort is needed against Birmingham, just two points ahead. Birmingham, disappointed by a draw against already relegated Rotherham, seeks improvement. With both teams desperate for points, a low-scoring match seems likely.
Millwall-Plymouth
Millwall's resurgence, securing safety with two games to spare, sets the stage for a celebratory atmosphere against Plymouth. Despite Plymouth's recent loss to Stoke, they'll play under pressure, potentially affecting their performance. With home advantage, Millwall could secure points.
Norwich-Swansea
Norwich's home winning streak ends at eight, drawing against Bristol. The focus remains on finishing strong for a playoff spot. Swansea, in top form, aims to continue their winning streak. Despite Norwich's home advantage, both teams could score.
Sheffield-WBA
Sheffield's recent win against Blackburn injects belief into the team. Facing a wounded WBA, Sheffield aims for another crucial win to secure safety. WBA, with playoffs at stake, seeks to bounce back. A draw or home win seems likely in this decisive match.
Southampton-Stoke
Southampton's recent defeats have dashed promotion hopes. With fourth place all but secured, they face Stoke, looking to end the season on a high. Stoke, with recent wins, aims to finish strong. Expect a medium to high-scoring match.
Watford-Sunderland
Watford, with Cleverley confirmed as coach, aims to finish the season positively. Sunderland, after a recent loss, seeks redemption. With little at stake, a draw seems probable.
Hull-Ipswich (27/04/24, h20:00 CET)
Hull's late surge for the playoffs meets Ipswich's promotion hopes. Both teams aim for victory in what promises to be a quality match. Expect at least a goal from each side.
Preston-Leicester (29/04/24, h20:00 CET)
Leicester's resounding victory over Southampton puts them on the brink of promotion. Preston, despite recent losses, has exceeded expectations this season. Expect a close match, possibly with few goals.