Charlton Athletic vs Derby County prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups - 20 January 2026
One of the fixtures of Championship round 28 will be played on Tuesday at The Valley in London, where Charlton Athletic will host Derby County. Let's take a look at a bet for this clash that offers promising chances of success.
Match preview
Charlton are still adapting to the Championship level after their return from League One. Nathan Jones' side currently sit 18th, maintaining a five-point cushion above the relegation zone, but have shown inconsistent form, particularly at the back.
Their win over Sheffield United in the previous round was their first in six matches, although their opponents were reduced to nine men before halftime. The Addicks are dealing with squad issues, including an injury to Harvey Knibbs, but the return of Kane Ramsey and a debut squad appearance for Godden bring a dose of optimism.
Derby County, in contrast to the hosts, are building momentum and are looking at the playoff race with growing confidence. John Eustace's team have won two of their last three matches and are now just five points off sixth place.
Particular attention should be paid to the Rams' away form - 21 points earned in 13 away games makes them the third-best team in the Championship by this metric. Their last visit to The Valley will also be a fond memory, having snatched a narrow 1-0 win.
Probable lineups
- Charlton Athletic: Kaminski, Clarke, Jones, Gillespie, Ramsey, Rankin-Costello, Anderson, Bree, Carey, Leaburn, Kelman
- Derby County: Videl Zetterstrom, Langas, Ward, Clarke, Ozoh, Thompson, Clarke, Elder, Brereton Diaz, Agyemang, Brewster
Match facts and head-to-head
- Charlton have not won back-to-back Championship matches since October.
- Derby have collected 21 points on the road - the third-best tally in the league.
- In their last eight visits to The Valley, Derby have lost only three times.
Prediction
Charlton showed character in the previous round, but their form remains shaky and the squad is notably weakened. Derby, on the other hand, have found stability - especially away from home - and by all measures, look like the favourites in this matchup.
