Blackburn vs Wrexham Prediction, Match Preview, Thursday, January 1st

Blackburn vs Wrexham Prediction, Match Preview, Thursday, January 1st. As the Championship action heats up, Blackburn Rovers are set to host Wrexham at Ewood Park. This match, scheduled for Thursday, January 1st, promises to be a compelling encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in the league. Blackburn, playing on home turf, will be looking to capitalise on their familiarity with Ewood Park to secure a victory.

Wrexham, on the other hand, will aim to upset the hosts and climb up the Championship standings. The significance of this match cannot be understated, as both teams are eager to establish their dominance early in the season. With the stakes high, fans can expect a competitive and thrilling game of football at Ewood Park.

Blackburn vs Wrexham Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Yes	1.85

Given the current form and injury concerns affecting both sides, our recommended betting tip is Both Teams to Score (BTTS). Blackburn’s home form and Wrexham’s resilience in finding the net make this a strong choice.

• Blackburn have scored in 82% of their home matches this season, highlighting their ability to find the net consistently.
• Wrexham have scored in 79% of their matches, showcasing their offensive threat even against tougher opponents.
• Both teams have key defensive injuries, which is likely to increase the chances of goals at both ends.

Betting Odds

Blackburn head into this Championship clash as the favourites with odds of 2.00, reflecting their strong home advantage at Ewood Park. Wrexham, however, are not to be underestimated, with odds of 3.65 suggesting they could spring a surprise.

Betting Tip	Odds
Blackburn to win	2
Draw	3.38
Wrexham to win	3.65

The draw is priced at 3.38, indicating that bookmakers expect a closely contested match. For those looking to bet, the over 2.5 goals market might be worth a punt, considering both teams’ attacking potential.

Blackburn Analysis & Past Performance

Blackburn’s recent form has been mixed, with only one win in their last five matches, alongside three draws and a single loss. Their latest outing ended in a 0-0 stalemate against Sheffield Wednesday, highlighting their current struggle to find the net consistently.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sheffield Wednesday	Blackburn	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	29 Dec, 2025
Middlesbrough	Blackburn	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	26 Dec, 2025
Blackburn	Millwall	2 – 0 (Win)	Championship	20 Dec, 2025
Portsmouth	Blackburn	2 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	13 Dec, 2025
Blackburn	Oxford	1 – 1 (Draw)	Championship	9 Dec, 2025

Recent Form:
Blackburn’s attack has been underwhelming, averaging just 0.80 goals per game over the last five fixtures. However, their defence has shown resilience, conceding only 0.60 goals on average, allowing them to keep three clean sheets. This defensive solidity is a positive aspect amidst their offensive challenges.

Currently sitting 19th in the Championship with 27 points, Blackburn’s home form has been particularly concerning, with only one win in their last five home matches. This has contributed to their low win ratio of 20% at Ewood Park. Their reliance on top scorer Andri Guðjohnsen, who has netted seven goals this season, is evident, yet they need a more diversified attacking threat to climb the standings.

• DDWLD

Blackburn Suspensions & Injuries

Blackburn face significant challenges with a number of key players out due to injuries. Jake Garrett’s leg injury, along with Scott Wharton’s Achilles tendon issue, limits defensive options, forcing potential reliance on less experienced players like George Pratt in the backline. The midfield depth is also impacted by the absence of Adam Forshaw with a hamstring injury, which might see Moussa Baradji or Sondre Tronstad stepping up to fill the void. These absences could pressure Blackburn to adopt a more conservative approach against Wrexham, focusing on maintaining structure over expansive play.

Player	Reason for Suspension	Matches Left	Expected Comeback
Ryan Alebiosu	International Duty	1	TBD

The suspension of Ryan Alebiosu due to national team commitments further complicates Blackburn’s defensive configurations. With one match of his ban remaining, this forces coach Valérien Ismaël to explore alternative setups, possibly shifting players like Lewis Miller to cover the void at right-back. This suspension, coupled with the injuries, might prompt a shift to a more defensive-minded formation to mitigate risks against Wrexham.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Jake Garrett	Leg injury	Early January 2026
Augustus Kargbo	Calf injury	Late January 2026
Scott Wharton	Achilles tendon injury	Late January 2026
Hayden Carter	Calf injury	Mid January 2026
Kristi Montgomery	Ankle injury	Early January 2026
Adam Forshaw	Hamstring injury	Early January 2026
Sidnei Tavares	Knee injury	Mid February 2026
Andri Guðjohnsen	Hamstring injury	Late January 2026
Ryoya Morishita	Ankle injury	Late January 2026

With key players like Augustus Kargbo and Andri Guðjohnsen sidelined until late January, Blackburn’s attacking options are also somewhat restricted. This may lead to an increased reliance on Axel Henriksson and Yuki Ohashi to lead the line, emphasising quick transitions and counter-attacks to exploit Wrexham’s weaknesses. The unavailability of these players will likely influence betting markets, with oddsmakers adjusting expectations based on Blackburn’s depleted squad and potential tactical conservatism.

Blackburn Key Players

Blackburn’s lineup features several key players who are poised to make a significant impact in their upcoming match against Wrexham. Despite the absence of Andri Guðjohnsen, the team’s top scorer with 7 goals, due to injury, the attacking responsibilities will likely fall to Yuki Ohashi and Axel Henriksson. Ohashi’s agility and Henriksson’s aerial prowess make them a formidable duo in the forward line, capable of troubling any defence.

Midfield dynamism will be crucial, with Todd Cantwell expected to be the playmaker. Cantwell’s vision and ability to drive forward can unlock defences, while Sondre Tronstad’s defensive work can stabilise the midfield. On the defensive end, Sean McLoughlin’s leadership and positioning will be vital in organising the backline against Wrexham’s attacks.

Expected lineup for Blackburn

• Goalkeeper: Aynsley Pears
• Defenders: Lewis Miller, Sean McLoughlin, George Pratt
• Midfielders: Matty Litherland, Sondre Tronstad, Moussa Baradji, Ryan Hedges, Todd Cantwell
• Forwards: Yuki Ohashi, Axel Henriksson

Blackburn’s tactical approach will heavily rely on the synergy between these key players. The combination of Cantwell’s creativity and Tronstad’s solidity in midfield, along with the forward threat posed by Ohashi and Henriksson, could shape the outcome of the match. The defensive unit, led by McLoughlin, will need to be resolute to secure a positive result.

Blackburn Tactics and Formation

Blackburn Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Not specified
• Key Forward: Axel Henriksson
• Midfield Pivot: Moussa Baradji and Sondre Tronstad
• Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on possession and control.

Blackburn’s recent performances have been anchored by a solid defensive approach, evident in their ability to secure three clean sheets in the last five matches. The defensive line, featuring Lewis Miller, Sean McLoughlin, and George Pratt, provides robustness, supported by goalkeeper Aynsley Pears.

In midfield, the combination of Moussa Baradji and Sondre Tronstad ensures a balance between defensive duties and ball progression. Their ability to maintain possession — 55% against Sheffield Wednesday — is crucial for dictating the game’s tempo.

Offensively, Axel Henriksson leads the attack, with support from dynamic wingers like Ryan Hedges and Todd Cantwell. Although Blackburn struggled to score in their last outing, their tactical discipline and structured build-up play remain key components of their strategy.

Wrexham Analysis & Past Performance

Wrexham have shown mixed form recently, achieving two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five Championship fixtures. Their most recent victory was a narrow 2-1 win against Preston, demonstrating their ability to edge out close contests. However, a 5-3 triumph over Sheffield United highlights their attacking prowess, led by top scorer Kieffer Moore, who has netted 10 goals this season.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Wrexham	Preston	2 – 1 (Win)	Championship	29 Dec 2025
Wrexham	Sheffield United	5 – 3 (Win)	Championship	26 Dec 2025
Swansea	Wrexham	2 – 1 (Loss)	Championship	19 Dec 2025
Wrexham	Watford	2 – 2 (Draw)	Championship	13 Dec 2025
Hull	Wrexham	2 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	10 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Wrexham’s recent performances have seen them average 2.00 goals per game, scoring in four of their last five matches. Despite this attacking capability, they have conceded the same average of 2.00 goals per game, indicating vulnerabilities in their defensive set-up. Notably, they have failed to secure a clean sheet in their recent five-game stretch, pointing to an area that requires improvement.

In terms of their away performances, Wrexham have struggled, having not secured a win in their last five away matches, with a record of three draws and two losses. This reflects a winless streak away from home, where their win ratio stands at just 0.00. Overall, they occupy the 11th position in the league with 34 points, highlighting their mid-table standing as they aim to improve both their defensive solidity and away form.

• WWLDL

Wrexham Suspensions & Injuries

Wrexham face significant challenges with several key players sidelined due to injuries. Notably, Kieffer Moore, who has been crucial in the forward line, is out with a hamstring injury until late January 2026. This absence might force Phil Parkinson to adjust his attacking strategies, possibly leaning on Josh Windass to fill the void. Additionally, the midfield is impacted by the absence of Lewis O’Brien with a dislocated shoulder, expected back in mid-February, which could put extra pressure on Ben Sheaf and Matthew James to maintain control in the centre.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Issa Kaboré	International duty	1	Unknown
James McClean	Post-match ban	1	Unknown

The defensive and midfield depth is also under strain with Lewis Brunt and Elliot Lee both unavailable due to respective injuries. With Brunt out until late January and Lee sidelined until late March, Wrexham’s options are limited, potentially affecting their ability to rotate and maintain intensity throughout the match.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Andy Cannon	Cruciate ligament injury	Late April 2026
Danny Ward	Dislocated elbow	Late January 2026
Aaron James	Knee surgery	Late February 2026
Lewis Brunt	Thigh injury	Late January 2026
Elliot Lee	Knee surgery	Late March 2026
Ryan Hardie	Knee injury	Late January 2026
Lewis O’Brien	Dislocated shoulder	Mid February 2026
Kieffer Moore	Hamstring injury	Late January 2026

Suspensions further complicate matters, as Issa Kaboré and James McClean are both unavailable, each serving the final match of their respective bans. Kaboré’s absence, due to national team commitments, and McClean’s post-match sanction suspension, could disrupt Wrexham’s defensive structure, necessitating a tactical reshuffle and potentially a more conservative approach from Parkinson.

Given these setbacks, Wrexham’s squad depth will be tested, and any tactical adjustments could significantly influence the betting markets, especially if Blackburn seek to exploit these vulnerabilities.

Wrexham Key Players

Wrexham’s attack will need to find a new focal point in the absence of their top scorer Kieffer Moore, who has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury. In his stead, Sam Smith, an influential forward, is expected to spearhead the attack. Smith’s agility and finishing skills make him a potent threat in the box, and he will be crucial in breaking down Blackburn’s defence.

In midfield, the presence of Ryan Longman and Ben Sheaf is vital. Longman offers creativity and flair, often acting as the playmaker, while Sheaf provides stability and defensive coverage. Their ability to control the game’s tempo and transition play will be key in Wrexham’s tactical approach.

At the back, Dominic Hyam’s leadership and defensive prowess will be instrumental in organising the defence. His ability to intercept and read the game can thwart Blackburn’s attacking efforts. The synergy between Hyam and his defensive partners will be pivotal in maintaining a solid backline.

Expected lineup for Wrexham

• Goalkeeper: Arthur Okonkwo
• Defence: Max Cleworth, Dominic Hyam, Callum Doyle
• Midfield: Ryan Longman, Matty James, Ben Sheaf, George Thomason
• Forward: Josh Windass, Nathan Broadhead, Sam Smith

Wrexham Tactics and Formation

Wrexham Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: N/A
• Key Forward: Kieffer Moore
• Midfield Strength: Ryan Longman and Ben Sheaf
• Defensive Vulnerability: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and aggressive forward play.

In their recent matches, Wrexham have demonstrated a preference for aggressive forward play, primarily led by Kieffer Moore, their top scorer with 10 goals. The midfield, orchestrated by Ryan Longman and Ben Sheaf, is crucial for both defensive transitions and initiating attacks, providing a balance between creativity and defensive cover.

Defensively, Wrexham have shown vulnerabilities, failing to secure clean sheets in their last five games. The defensive trio of Max Cleworth, Dominic Hyam, and Callum Doyle will need to be more cohesive to withstand pressure from opponents like Blackburn, especially given their current form away from home.

Offensively, Wrexham’s strategy revolves around high pressing and quick transitions, leveraging the pace and skill of players like Josh Windass and Nathan Broadhead. This approach has been effective against teams that allow space in midfield, but it leaves them susceptible to counterattacks, as seen in recent performances.

Blackburn vs Wrexham H2H Record

In their brief head-to-head history, Blackburn have the upper hand with one win and two draws against Wrexham. Their last encounter was a 1-1 draw in the Championship, showing how closely matched these sides can be. Interestingly, the only win in this fixture came when Blackburn hosted Wrexham in the FA Cup, securing a 4-1 victory.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Wrexham	Blackburn Rovers	1 – 1	Championship	2025-11-29
Blackburn Rovers	Wrexham	4 – 1	FA Cup	2024-01-29
Wrexham	Blackburn Rovers	1 – 1	Club Friendlies	2013-07-06

When Blackburn last hosted Wrexham at Ewood Park, they came out on top with a convincing 4-1 win in the FA Cup. This suggests that Blackburn might have the edge playing at home, especially given their ability to find the back of the net with six goals scored across their meetings.