Middlesbrough FC - Preston North End FC ai prediction 24.01.2026 Championship

Preview for Match Middlesbrough FC vs Preston North End

On Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 13:30 GMT, the Riverside Stadium will play host to an exhilarating Championship encounter between Middlesbrough FC and Preston North End. With both clubs vying for favorable positions in the league table, this match promises to be a pivotal moment in their respective campaigns. Middlesbrough currently occupies second place with 52 points, showcasing a commendable record of 15 victories, 7 draws, and 6 defeats, having scored 42 goals while conceding 29. Their home form has been particularly strong, with 8 wins, 3 draws, and only 2 losses.

Conversely, Preston North End sits in sixth place, amassing 43 points through 11 wins, 10 draws, and 7 losses, with a goal tally of 36 scored and 29 conceded. Their away record features 5 wins, 5 draws, and 3 defeats, indicating a level of resilience away from home that could challenge Middlesbrough’s dominance at the Riverside. The last direct encounter between these two teams ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, a result that underscores the competitive nature of their meetings.

Both teams are entering this fixture with contrasting recent performances. Middlesbrough has recorded 3 wins and 2 losses in their last five matches, most recently securing a 2-1 away victory over Stoke City. Meanwhile, Preston North End has struggled, winning only 2 and losing 3 of their last five games, including a disappointing 0-3 loss at home against Hull City. The stakes are high as Middlesbrough aims to consolidate their promotion aspirations, while Preston seeks to maintain their playoff position.

Our Betting Tip for Middlesbrough FC vs Preston North End

In assessing the upcoming match, our betting prediction leans towards a home victory for Middlesbrough FC, making Tip 1 the primary recommendation. The team's robust home record and recent form suggest that they will be favored to secure all three points against Preston North End. Additionally, considering both teams’ attacking capabilities, we also predict that both teams will score, making "Yes" the second tip in our betting advice.

Our tips

Double Chance

12

Middlesbrough FC have won or lost 5 of their last 5 matches.

Preston North End have won or lost 5 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

Total Goals

Over 2.5

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 4 of Middlesbrough FC's last 5 matches.

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 2 of Preston North End's last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

Total Goals

Under 4.5

There have been under 4.5 goals scored in 4 of Middlesbrough FC's last 5 matches.

There have been under 4.5 goals scored in 5 of Preston North End's last 5 matches.

Top odds at bet365

AI Prediction for Middlesbrough FC vs Preston North End

The AI prediction for this clash suggests a likely win for Middlesbrough FC, with a final score forecast of 2-1. Utilizing current data and statistical analysis, it appears that Middlesbrough's strong home performance coupled with Preston's recent struggles will play a crucial role in determining the match outcome. With both teams capable of finding the back of the net, a scoreline that reflects a competitive nature is also plausible.

Middlesbrough FC Performance Check

Middlesbrough FC, under the guidance of manager Kim Hellberg, has shown noteworthy consistency this season. Currently positioned second in the Championship, they have accumulated 52 points with an impressive tally of 15 wins. Their recent form includes three victories in the last five matches, which bodes well for their confidence heading into this encounter. The team's defense has been solid, conceding just 29 goals, while their offense continues to demonstrate efficiency with 42 goals scored. As they prepare for this match, Middlesbrough will be eager to leverage their home advantage and maintain their pursuit of promotion.

How is the Current Performance of Preston North End

Preston North End, managed by Paul Heckingbottom, has encountered a challenging phase in their campaign. Currently sitting in sixth place with 43 points, they have managed 11 wins but have also recorded 10 draws and 7 defeats. Their recent form is concerning, with only 2 wins in the last five matches, including a disheartening 0-3 loss to Hull City in their latest outing. Although their away record indicates resilience, the team must find a way to assert themselves against a formidable opponent in Middlesbrough if they are to secure a vital away point.

Head-to-Head Last Direct Meetings

In the last five direct meetings between Middlesbrough FC and Preston North End, the results have been relatively balanced. Middlesbrough has secured 1 victory, while Preston has managed to win 2 times, and there have been 2 draws. This history showcases a competitive rivalry, suggesting that both teams are capable of challenging each other effectively.

Performance Last 5 Matches

In their last five matches, Middlesbrough FC has recorded 3 wins and 2 losses, indicating a solid performance overall. In contrast, Preston North End has struggled, achieving 2 wins but suffering from 3 defeats. This uneven form could significantly impact their confidence heading into this crucial encounter.

Performance

Middlesbrough FC

Last games

Middlesbrough FC performance of the last 5 home matches

Victories

60%

Over 2.5

60%

Preston North End

Last games

Preston North End performance of the last 5 away matches

Victories

60%

Over 2.5

60%

Last Match Results

Middlesbrough FC's most recent match ended in a 2-1 victory against Stoke City, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. Conversely, Preston North End faced a disappointing 0-3 defeat at home to Hull City, highlighting the challenges they currently face.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip

As for the best odds, current offerings suggest Tip 1 for a Middlesbrough win at odds of 1.68 on Betika, while a draw is available at 3.95 on Betano, and a Preston win at 5.80 on Mozzart. Our experience with various betting sites indicates that these odds provide a favorable opportunity for punters looking to place informed bets. For further insights, explore our bookmaker comparison to find the best betting sites.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Middlesbrough FC enters this match as the clear favorites, bolstered by their strong home performance and recent form. With a solid defense and an attacking unit capable of scoring, they are well-positioned to secure a victory against a struggling Preston North End side. We anticipate a competitive match, but ultimately, Middlesbrough’s quality should shine through, leading to a predicted win.

Here are the best football tips for tomorrow, as we continue to provide insights and recommendations to aid in your betting endeavors.