Blackburn look to build on momentum after Wolves trip: prediction for Blackburn vs Middlesbrough
The Championship's second round clash between Blackburn and Middlesbrough will take place on August 22, 2026, at Ewood Park. The hosts kicked off the season with a respectable draw against Wolverhampton, while Middlesbrough claimed all three points in their match against Lincoln City.
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Blackburn: a better-than-expected start
Last season, Blackburn finished only 20th and, heading into the new campaign, were again seen as relegation candidates. However, Tony Mowbray’s side delivered a pleasant surprise on opening day, drawing 2-2 away at recently relegated Premier League side Wolverhampton.
Andri Gudjohnsen has been particularly impressive, scoring in back-to-back matches to start the season. Blackburn now play at home for the first time, where they managed just four wins in 23 home fixtures last term.
Middlesbrough: Lancashire immediately a key figure
Middlesbrough have started the season with back-to-back wins in all competitions. The main man so far has been Will Lancashire, who has scored all three of the team’s goals—one in the League Cup against Wrexham and two in the league against Lincoln.
Kim Helberg’s squad are also hoping to maintain the strong away form they showed last season. Middlesbrough’s last away defeat in the Championship dates back to February 16, when they lost to Coventry.
Match facts
- Blackburn started their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Wolverhampton.
- Will Lancashire has scored all three of Middlesbrough’s goals in the first two official matches this season.
- Only seven goals have been scored in the last seven head-to-head meetings between these two sides.
Cautious approach seems most likely: prediction for Blackburn vs Middlesbrough
Blackburn gained a real emotional boost after their draw with Wolves and should be able to put up a fight at home against a more high-profile opponent. However, last season’s poor home record still looms large.
Middlesbrough look the steadier and better-equipped side, but recent meetings between these teams have all pointed to tight, cagey football with little space to operate. A draw seems the most logical outcome.
