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Middlesbrough and Southampton face off in an intriguing Championship clash at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 3 pm UK time. Both teams desperately seek a win, with Boro aiming to finally break their victory drought this season and the Saints hoping to halt a losing streak.

Analysis:

Middlesbrough, managed by Michael Carrick, started 2023 with an air of promise and were even considered among the best in the Championship. Carrick’s potential move to the Premier League was frequently discussed, given the team’s performance. However, things have taken a stark turn for the North-East side as they’ve failed to clinch a win in their last 12 Championship outings since April 24. Sitting at the bottom of the table, the situation is growing dire for Middlesbrough. Their 1-1 stalemate against Sheffield Wednesday does show signs of potential, but the quest for maximum points becomes more urgent with each passing game.

Southampton’s recent form isn’t comforting either. Beginning their Championship journey with a promising 10 points from 12, the team’s form has drastically waned. The Saints have succumbed to three consecutive losses, against formidable opponents like Sunderland, Leicester City, and Ipswich Town. Their style of play, under head coach Russell Martin, is now under scrutiny. The vast possession they enjoy hasn’t been capitalized upon, which raises questions about the possible need for strategic changes.

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Historically, Middlesbrough and Southampton have faced off 57 times. The Saints have had the upper hand with 25 wins, while Boro have secured 17 victories, and 15 matches ended in draws. Their last clash was in the Premier League in May 2017, which saw Southampton claim a 2-1 win. An interesting pattern emerges from their previous encounters: six of their last seven matches have had at least three goals scored.

Prediction:

Considering the form and the situation both teams are in, the match promises to be an intense affair. Southampton’s previous track record against Middlesbrough, combined with the fact that Middlesbrough have trailed at halftime in five of their seven league games this term, slightly tilts the balance in favor of the Saints.

Goal.mu predicts: Middlesbrough 1-2 Southampton. Despite their recent form, Southampton has a history of pulling off wins against Middlesbrough. Additionally, with the pressure mounting on both teams, it is likely that the team with the better past record might have a psychological edge.

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