Wigan Athletic FC - Barnsley FC ai prediction 01.01.2026 League One
Preview for match Wigan Athletic vs Barnsley FC
As the League One season progresses, the upcoming clash between Wigan Athletic and Barnsley FC at the Brick Community Stadium on January 1, 2026, promises to be a pivotal encounter for both clubs. Wigan, currently positioned 18th in the league table, is looking to improve its fortunes after a series of mixed results. With a total of 26 points accrued from 21 matches—comprising 6 wins, 8 draws, and 7 defeats—the team has scored 23 goals while conceding 25. Their home record stands at 5 wins, 2 draws, and 3 defeats, indicating a moderately strong performance on familiar turf.
Conversely, Barnsley FC occupies the 9th position in the standings, having amassed 28 points from the same number of matches. With 8 wins, 4 draws, and 7 defeats, they have managed to score 32 goals and concede 30. Their away record reflects a more challenging situation, with 3 wins, 3 draws, and 4 defeats. This match presents a significant opportunity for both teams, as Wigan seeks to climb out of the lower half of the table, while Barnsley aims to secure a place in the promotion playoff spots.
Historically, the teams have had a competitive rivalry, with their most recent direct encounter resulting in a 1-1 draw. This match will be crucial for both sides, particularly as they look to build momentum going into the second half of the season. The Brick Community Stadium will be buzzing with anticipation as fans hope their teams can deliver a thrilling spectacle.
Our betting tip for Wigan Athletic vs Barnsley FC
Our betting prediction for this match leans towards a home victory for Wigan Athletic. The odds provided by Betika suggest a home win at 2.32, which reflects the potential for the home side to capitalize on their strengths. Given Wigan's relatively strong home form, coupled with Barnsley's struggles in away matches, a win for the hosts appears likely.
In addition, we recommend considering the "Both teams to score? Yes" market, as both teams have shown a propensity to find the back of the net this season, with Wigan scoring 23 goals and Barnsley netting 32.
Our tips
AI prediction for the match Wigan Athletic vs Barnsley FC
Based on statistical analysis and recent performances, the AI betting tip for this match suggests a potential scoreline of 2-1 in favor of Wigan Athletic. This prediction considers Wigan's home advantage and Barnsley's defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in away fixtures. The AI model indicates a strong likelihood of Wigan securing three points, which could be pivotal in their quest for improved league standing.
Wigan Athletic performance check
Wigan Athletic's current performance under manager Ryan Lowe has been a mixed bag. The team has managed to secure only two wins in their last five matches, alongside one draw and two defeats. This inconsistency has left them languishing in the lower tiers of the League One table. However, Wigan's home record is a silver lining, as they tend to perform better in front of their supporters. The coach will be looking to galvanize his squad and leverage their home advantage to secure a crucial victory against Barnsley.
How is the current performance of Barnsley FC
Barnsley FC, under the guidance of coach Conor Hourihane, has experienced a decline in form recently. With only two wins in their last five outings and three defeats, the team has struggled to maintain consistency. Despite their respectable position in the league, their recent performances—particularly a home loss to Mansfield Town—highlight areas that require improvement. Barnsley will aim to bounce back and solidify their push for a playoff spot by securing a vital away win against Wigan.
Head-to-head last direct meetings
In their last five meetings across all competitions, Wigan Athletic has secured one victory, while Barnsley has two wins and there have been two draws. This indicates a closely contested rivalry between the two sides, with both teams capable of producing results on their day.
Performance last 5 matches
Wigan Athletic has recorded two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five matches, reflecting a somewhat erratic form as they seek to stabilize. Meanwhile, Barnsley has also seen two wins but has suffered three defeats, indicating a concerning trend for the visitors as they approach this crucial encounter.
Performance
Wigan Athletic performance of the last 4 home matches
Barnsley FC performance of the last 6 away matches
Last match results Wigan Athletic and Barnsley FC
In their respective last matches, Wigan Athletic faced a disappointing 1-2 defeat against Bradford City, while Barnsley also fell short at home, losing 2-3 to Mansfield Town. Both teams will be eager to rectify their recent performances and secure a positive outcome in this upcoming fixture.
Best odds and our betting tip
The best odds available for this matchup suggest a home win for Wigan Athletic at 2.32, a draw at 3.45, and an away victory for Barnsley at 2.95. Our experience with the leading betting sites confirms that these odds are competitive and provide an excellent opportunity for bettors. It is advisable to explore various betting platforms for the best offers available.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wigan Athletic emerges as the favored side to win this clash against Barnsley FC, primarily due to their home advantage and the pressing need to improve their league standing. While Barnsley possesses attacking prowess, their struggles in away games could prove detrimental. Expect a closely fought encounter, but ultimately, we lean towards a home victory for Wigan Athletic.
Here are the best betting tips for tomorrow, providing further insights into upcoming fixtures and potential betting opportunities.
Current Standing
| POS | TEAM | PTS | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
Cardiff City FC
|
44 | 21 | 14 | 2 | 5 | 38 | 22 | 16 |
|
2
|
Lincoln City
|
41 | 22 | 12 | 5 | 5 | 32 | 23 | 9 |
|
3
|
Bradford City
|
40 | 21 | 11 | 7 | 3 | 31 | 21 | 10 |
|
4
|
Bolton Wanderers
|
37 | 21 | 10 | 7 | 4 | 30 | 20 | 10 |
|
5
|
Stevenage FC
|
36 | 20 | 10 | 6 | 4 | 24 | 15 | 9 |
|
6
|
Stockport County
|
35 | 21 | 10 | 5 | 6 | 29 | 27 | 2 |
|
7
|
Huddersfield Town AFC
|
34 | 22 | 10 | 4 | 8 | 40 | 31 | 9 |
|
8
|
Luton Town FC
|
32 | 22 | 9 | 5 | 8 | 30 | 28 | 2 |
|
9
|
Barnsley FC
|
28 | 19 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 32 | 30 | 2 |
|
10
|
Wycombe Wanderers
|
28 | 22 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 28 | 26 | 2 |
|
11
|
Reading FC
|
28 | 21 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 28 | 27 | 1 |
|
12
|
Leyton Orient
|
28 | 22 | 8 | 4 | 10 | 34 | 35 | -1 |
|
13
|
Peterborough United
|
28 | 21 | 9 | 1 | 11 | 25 | 27 | -2 |
|
14
|
AFC Wimbledon
|
28 | 21 | 8 | 4 | 9 | 24 | 29 | -5 |
|
15
|
Burton Albion
|
27 | 21 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 23 | 27 | -4 |
|
16
|
Northampton Town
|
27 | 21 | 8 | 3 | 10 | 22 | 26 | -4 |
|
17
|
Mansfield Town
|
26 | 21 | 7 | 5 | 9 | 27 | 28 | -1 |
|
18
|
Wigan Athletic FC
|
26 | 21 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 23 | 25 | -2 |
|
19
|
Blackpool FC
|
26 | 22 | 7 | 5 | 10 | 25 | 30 | -5 |
|
20
|
Plymouth Argyle
|
25 | 22 | 8 | 1 | 13 | 27 | 37 | -10 |
|
21
|
Rotherham United
|
24 | 22 | 6 | 6 | 10 | 22 | 29 | -7 |
|
22
|
Exeter City
|
23 | 21 | 7 | 2 | 12 | 21 | 21 | 0 |
|
23
|
Doncaster Rovers
|
22 | 22 | 6 | 4 | 12 | 21 | 36 | -15 |
|
24
|
Port Vale FC
|
15 | 21 | 3 | 6 | 12 | 13 | 29 | -16 |
- Promotion
- Play-offs
- Relegation