Hull City vs Stoke City prediction, H2H and probable lineups — January 1, 2026
The Matchday 25 clash in the English Championship between Hull City and Stoke City, scheduled for January 1, 2026, will kick off the second half of the season for both teams and serve as a crucial milestone in their pursuit of their league ambitions.
- See also: Central Coast Mariners vs Brisbane Roar prediction, H2H and probable lineups - December 31, 2025
Key facts and head-to-head history:
- Hull City are unbeaten in their last 5 matches.
- Stoke City have won just 1 of their last 5 games.
- Head-to-head record over the last 5 meetings: Hull City - 3 wins, draws - 0, Stoke City - 2 wins.
- In 4 of the last 5 encounters, both teams have found the back of the net.
Match preview:
Hull City traditionally look to set the tempo at home, focusing on ball control and aggressive pressing—a style that becomes especially effective with the backing of their home crowd. The Tigers are aiming to consolidate their position in the upper part of the table and recognize that a strong start to the new year could set a positive tone for the upcoming rounds. Stoke City, meanwhile, remain a resilient and uncompromising opponent, capable of imposing a physical game and capitalizing on any mistakes from their rivals. The visitors are likely to emphasize a compact midfield, physical duels, and sharp counterattacks following turnovers. Expect a balanced and intense contest, where much will depend on clinical finishing and each side’s ability to adapt as the match unfolds. The home advantage could prove decisive for Hull City.
Probable lineups:
- Hull City: Pandur, Hughes, Egan, Famewo, Coyle, Crooks, Slater, Gyabi, McCarthy, Joseph, Ndala.
- Stoke City: Johansson, Lawal, Phillips, Wilmot, Gibson, Manhoef, Seko, N’Zonzi, Thomas, Gallagher, Mubama.
Match prediction:
The head-to-head stats between Hull City and Stoke City show that both sides have regularly found the net in their recent encounters—in particular, in the last two Championship meetings (2024/25 and 2025/26 seasons), both teams scored in each match (1-2 and 2-1). This points to a high probability of goals on both ends.
Additionally, the data reveals a healthy goal average in these fixtures (around 2.37 goals per game), further boosting the chances that both sides will get on the scoresheet in this upcoming clash.
Given the teams’ styles and their recent H2H record, the prediction 'Both teams to score – Yes' looks highly realistic for this match.
My prediction: Both teams to score – YES.
