Wrexham vs Preston North End prediction, H2H and probable lineups - December 29, 2025
One of the fixtures of the 24th round of the English Championship will take place on Monday at the Racecourse Ground in Wrexham, where the home side will host Preston North End. I’m betting on the outcome based on the hosts’ attacking form and their strong home run.
Match preview
After a stunning comeback and a 5-3 victory over Sheffield United, Wrexham have noticeably stepped up their attacking game. The team has netted eight goals in their last three matches—the same number they managed in the previous eight rounds. Despite some inconsistency, the Dragons are just five points off the playoff zone and remain in the hunt for promotion. However, their defensive instability remains a concern: in each of their last four games, they’ve conceded at least twice.
On home turf, Wrexham have hit a purple patch, going unbeaten in six consecutive home games, with four of those ending in victory. This season, Phil Parkinson’s men have shown real character and consistently scrapped for points. The psychological boost from a recent head-to-head win over Preston in the EFL Cup (3-2)—even if it was in another competition—cannot be overstated. In this kind of form, and with the backing of their fans, Wrexham could be poised for another upset.
Preston will finish 2025 in the top six if they beat Wrexham, but the visitors’ form is far from inspiring. They’ve put together a seven-match unbeaten run, but five of those ended in draws, and they’ve scored just one goal in each of their last four outings. The attack has clearly stalled: in seven of the last nine rounds, they’ve scored no more than once per game. Even so, the team remains solid at the back—23 goals conceded in 23 rounds speaks to their organized defense.
Preston have shown a bit more bravery on the road, winning three of their last six away matches. However, a lack of creativity in midfield and limited attacking options could spell trouble against a motivated Wrexham side. Preston are still in the chase for a top-two finish, but with their current attacking form, that looks more like a task for the spring than for late December.
Probable lineups
- Wrexham: Okonkwo, Cleworth, Hyam, Doyle, Longman, James, Shiff, Thomasson, Windass, Moore, Broadhead
- Preston North End: Iversen, Offiah, Storey, Hughes, Valensin, Armstrong, Whiteman, McCann, Small, Smith, Jebbison
Match facts and head-to-head
- Preston have failed to win five of their last seven matches, despite their strong defense.
- Wrexham have won four of their last six home games.
- In August, Wrexham defeated Preston 3-2 in the Cup.
Prediction
Wrexham are on the rise—a win over Sheffield United has clearly boosted their confidence. Meanwhile, Preston are struggling in attack and drawing too many games for comfort. Back the Dragons to extend their home streak and bag all three points.
