Stoke City FC - Middlesbrough FC ai prediction 21.01.2026 Championship

Preview for Match Stoke City vs Middlesbrough FC

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Stoke City will host Middlesbrough FC at the bet365 Stadium for a compelling Championship clash as part of Matchday 28. The match is set to kick off at 21:00, and both teams come into this fixture with contrasting fortunes in the league. Stoke City currently occupies the 7th position in the table, having amassed 41 points from 27 games, while Middlesbrough FC sits comfortably in 2nd place with 49 points from the same number of matches.

Stoke City has recorded 12 victories, 5 draws, and 10 defeats this season, showcasing a decent goal-scoring record with 32 goals scored and 23 conceded. Their home form has been relatively mixed, with 6 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses at the bet365 Stadium. This inconsistency could prove crucial as they prepare to face a high-flying Middlesbrough side.

Middlesbrough, under the stewardship of coach Kim Hellberg, has been in formidable form, registering 14 wins, 7 draws, and just 6 losses, with a goal tally of 40 scored and 28 conceded. Their away record further strengthens their case, with 6 wins, 4 draws, and 4 defeats, indicating they can perform well on the road.

The last direct encounter between the two teams ended in a 0-0 draw, suggesting a competitive matchup. However, the recent performances indicate that Middlesbrough may enter this match as the favorites, especially given their current standing in the table and their recent form.

Our Betting Tip for the Match Stoke City vs Middlesbrough FC

Our betting prediction for this match leans towards an away win for Middlesbrough FC. Given their current form and favorable position in the league standings, the odds of 2.50 at Betika for an away victory appear to be an attractive option for bettors.

Additionally, considering both teams' attacking capabilities, our secondary tip will be that both teams will score in this fixture. The odds for this outcome stand at 1.80 at Gbets, suggesting a strong likelihood of goals from both sides.

Our tips

Total Goals

Under 1.5

There have been under 1.5 goals scored in 3 of Stoke City's last 5 matches.

There have been under 1.5 goals scored in 2 of Middlesbrough FC's last 5 matches.

Top odds at bet365

Double Chance

12

Stoke City have won or lost 4 of their last 5 matches.

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

Top odds at Betway

Double Chance

1X

Stoke City have won or drawn 4 of their last 5 matches.

Middlesbrough FC have drawn or lost 3 of their last 5 matches.

Top odds at Betway

AI Prediction for the Match Stoke City vs Middlesbrough FC

AI forecasting indicates that Middlesbrough FC has a high probability of winning this match based on their superior form and historical data. A predicted scoreline of 2-1 in favor of Middlesbrough seems plausible, as both teams have shown the capability to find the back of the net while also being susceptible to conceding goals.

Stoke City Performance Check

Stoke City, managed by Mark Robins, has shown signs of improvement recently, having secured 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat in their last five matches across all competitions. Despite their recent resurgence, they will need to find a way to convert their home advantage into points, especially against a formidable opponent like Middlesbrough. Their home record indicates that while they can be competitive, they must improve their consistency to challenge for a playoff spot.

How is the Current Performance of Middlesbrough FC

Middlesbrough FC, under the guidance of Kim Hellberg, has experienced a slight dip in form recently, with 2 wins and 3 defeats in their last five matches. However, their recent 3-2 victory against West Bromwich Albion demonstrates their ability to prevail in tight contests. With a robust away record and a solid squad, they will be looking to secure all three points and maintain their position near the top of the table.

Last Direct Match

The previous match between Stoke City and Middlesbrough FC concluded in a 0-0 stalemate. While this scoreline suggests a closely contested game, both teams will be eager to assert their attacking prowess in the upcoming fixture.

Head-to-Head Last Direct Meetings

In their last five encounters across all competitions, Stoke City has recorded 2 wins, while Middlesbrough FC has also claimed 2 victories, with 1 match ending in a draw. This history indicates a balanced rivalry, but current form heavily favors Middlesbrough.

Performance Last 5 Matches

Stoke City has recorded 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat in their last five matches, indicating a positive trend as they approach this match. Conversely, Middlesbrough's recent form shows 2 wins and 3 defeats, suggesting they may need to refocus to maintain their standing.

Performance

Stoke City

Last games

Stoke City performance of the last 5 home matches

Victories

40%

Over 2.5

40%

Middlesbrough FC

Last games

Middlesbrough FC performance of the last 5 away matches

Victories

40%

Over 2.5

60%

Last Match Results Stoke City and Middlesbrough FC

In their last outings, Stoke City managed a 0-0 home draw against Queens Park Rangers, which reflects their struggle to convert chances into goals. Middlesbrough FC, however, enjoyed a 3-2 away victory against West Bromwich Albion, showcasing their attacking strength and resilience.

Best Odds and Our Betting Tip

The best odds for the match indicate that Middlesbrough FC is favored to win, with odds of 2.50 available at Betika. Our betting tip, taking into account the current form and historical performances, is to back an away win for Middlesbrough FC alongside a wager on both teams to score, given the attacking potential of both sides. For those exploring the best betting sites, our bookmaker comparison can guide you to favorable options.

Conclusion

In summary, Middlesbrough FC enters this match as the favorites due to their superior league position and recent performances. Conversely, Stoke City will need to harness their home advantage effectively to challenge for a positive outcome. With the stakes high, expect an engaging contest that could ultimately favor the visitors.

Here are the best betting tips for tomorrow that can help enhance your betting experience!