Hull vs Derby Prediction, Match Preview, Tuesday, 24 February

Hull vs Derby Prediction, Match Preview: As the Championship intensifies, Hull City will host Derby County at the MKM Stadium on Tuesday, 24 February. This fixture is set to be a significant encounter in the league, with both teams eager to secure vital points. Hull, playing on home turf, will look to make the most of their familiarity with the MKM Stadium to gain an advantage over Derby.

Derby County, meanwhile, will aim to overcome Hull’s home advantage and climb the Championship table. With both teams having much at stake, this match promises to be a closely contested affair. Fans and bettors alike will be keen to see how these two sides match up in what could be a pivotal game in their respective campaigns.

Hull vs Derby Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Hull City to Win	2.05

Hull City come into this game sitting comfortably in 4th place and with strong home form, making them a solid bet to win at odds of 2.05. Despite Derby County’s slight edge in recent head-to-head meetings, Hull’s need to consolidate their playoff position and their attacking prowess, especially with Oli McBurnie and Joe Gelhardt combining for 22 goals, make them the favourites.

• Hull have scored in 76% of their home matches, demonstrating consistent attacking output.
• Derby have injury concerns, particularly regarding key scorer Carlton Morris, which could weaken their attack.
• Hull’s motivation to secure playoff spots and their home advantage offer significant value.

Betting Odds

Hull enter this Championship clash as slight favourites, with odds of 2.34 suggesting a close contest at the MKM Stadium. Derby, on the other hand, are priced at 2.99, indicating that bookmakers see them as underdogs, but not by a large margin.

Betting Tip	Odds
Hull to win	2.34
Draw	3.23
Derby to win	2.99

The draw is also a tempting option at 3.23, reflecting the competitive nature of this fixture. For those seeking value, considering both teams’ recent form, betting on a draw or a narrow win could be worthwhile.

Hull Analysis & Past Performance

Hull’s recent form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent results include a heavy 0-4 defeat to Chelsea in the FA Cup and a 1-3 loss to Queens Park Rangers at home, highlighting their struggles, particularly at the MKM Stadium.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Hull	Queens Park Rangers	1 – 3 (Loss)	Championship	21 Feb 2026
Hull	Chelsea	0 – 4 (Loss)	FA Cup	13 Feb 2026
Hull	Bristol City	2 – 3 (Loss)	Championship	7 Feb 2026
Hull	Watford	0 – 0 (Draw)	Championship	3 Feb 2026
Blackburn	Hull	0 – 1 (Win)	Championship	31 Jan 2026

Recent Form:

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In their last five league games, Hull have averaged 0.80 goals scored per match while conceding an average of 2.00 goals. Defensively, they have managed two clean sheets, but their inability to maintain a solid defence is evident from conceding in three out of five matches. Offensively, Hull’s reliance on top scorer Oli McBurnie, who has netted 12 goals this season, is clear, yet the team has struggled to find the net consistently.

Hull Suspensions & Injuries

Hull face significant challenges with several key players sidelined due to injury. The absence of Eliot Matazo and Nathan Tinsdale, both with long-term injuries, continues to weaken Hull’s midfield options. Mohamed Belloumi, along with Matt Crooks and Toby Collyer, are also unavailable due to hamstring injuries, with their return expected in early March. This places considerable pressure on the remaining midfielders to maintain Hull’s competitive edge.

The defensive line is further compromised, with Semi Ajayi and Matty Jacob ruled out until mid-March and early April respectively. This forces Hull to rely heavily on their remaining defenders, such as Lewie Coyle and Paddy McNair, to hold the backline together. The absence of these key players may lead Hull to adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on defensive solidity.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Eliot Matazo	Cruciate ligament injury	Unknown
Nathan Tinsdale	Knee injury	Unknown
Mohamed Belloumi	Hamstring injury	Early March 2026
Darko Gyabi	Groin injury	Mid March 2026
Semi Ajayi	Hamstring injury	Mid March 2026
Matt Crooks	Hamstring injury	Early March 2026
Matty Jacob	Hamstring injury	Early April 2026
Toby Collyer	Hamstring injury	Early March 2026

The tactical impact of these injuries is significant. Coach Sergej Jakirovic may need to consider a formation that maximises the use of available players, possibly deploying a more compact midfield to compensate for the absence of key figures. The reliance on Joe Gelhardt and Liam Millar for creativity and attacking impetus could increase as Hull seek to offset these setbacks.

From a betting perspective, these injuries could influence the odds against Hull, as their squad depth is notably affected. The unavailability of several first-team players might tip the balance in Derby’s favour, particularly in midfield battles and defensive stability.

Hull Key Players

Oli McBurnie stands out as Hull’s top scorer with 12 goals this season. His clinical finishing and ability to find space in the box make him a constant threat to any defence. McBurnie’s presence in the forward line is crucial for Hull’s attacking play, often dictating the team’s tempo and providing a focal point for their offensive moves. His partnership with Liam Millar, who brings pace and creativity, can trouble Derby’s defensive setup.

In midfield, Amir Hadžiahmetović’s role as a playmaker is vital. His vision and passing range enable Hull to transition quickly from defence to attack. Regan Slater’s industriousness complements Hadžiahmetović, providing balance and defensive cover. In defence, John Egan’s leadership and aerial prowess are key to maintaining a solid backline, supported by the pace and tackling ability of Ryan Giles.

Expected lineup for Hull:

• Goalkeeper: Ivor Pandur
• Defenders: Lewie Coyle, Paddy McNair, John Egan, Ryan Giles
• Midfielders: Amir Hadžiahmetović, Regan Slater, Joe Gelhardt
• Forwards: Yu Hirakawa, Liam Millar, Oli McBurnie

Hull Tactics and Formation

Hull Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Oli McBurnie
• Midfield Pivot: Amir Hadžiahmetović and Regan Slater
• Defensive Structure: Experienced backline with John Egan and Paddy McNair
• Notable Strategy: Heavy reliance on possession-based play and wing attacks.

Hull City typically set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, providing a balanced approach between defence and attack. With John Egan and Paddy McNair as the central defensive pairing, they offer stability and experience at the back, crucial for maintaining defensive integrity. This setup has been pivotal, though they have struggled to keep clean sheets consistently.

In midfield, Amir Hadžiahmetović and Regan Slater form a dynamic duo, tasked with breaking up opposition play and initiating attacks. Their ability to control the tempo and distribute effectively is complemented by the creative presence of Joe Gelhardt, who operates in a more advanced role.

Offensively, Hull rely heavily on Oli McBurnie, their top scorer, to lead the line. The wingers, Liam Millar and Yu Hirakawa, provide width and pace, crucial for stretching defences and creating goal-scoring opportunities. Hull’s strategy often revolves around maintaining high possession and exploiting the flanks, although recent performances have seen them concede more than desired.

Derby Analysis & Past Performance

Derby have shown mixed form in their recent outings, with their last five matches yielding two wins, two losses, and one draw. Notably, they secured a commanding 5-0 victory against Bristol City, demonstrating their potential for offensive explosiveness.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Watford	Derby	2 – 0 (Loss)	Championship	21 Feb 2026
Derby	Swansea	2 – 0 (Win)	Championship	14 Feb 2026
Derby	Ipswich	1 – 2 (Loss)	Championship	7 Feb 2026
Bristol City	Derby	0 – 5 (Win)	Championship	30 Jan 2026
Derby	West Bromwich	1 – 1 (Draw)	Championship	23 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
Their attack has been reasonably effective, with an average of 1.80 goals scored per game across their last five fixtures. However, they have also shown vulnerability, conceding an average of 1.00 goal per match during the same period. Despite these defensive lapses, Derby managed to keep two clean sheets, indicating periods of defensive resilience.

Currently sitting 8th in the Championship, Derby have accumulated 48 points. Away from home, they have been relatively strong, winning three out of their last five away games, translating to a 60% win ratio. This suggests a side capable of delivering results on the road, albeit with occasional inconsistencies, as evidenced by their recent 0-2 defeat to Watford where they struggled to make an impact with only five shots compared to Watford’s 17.

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Derby Suspensions & Injuries

Derby face the challenge of fielding a competitive side against Hull with three players sidelined due to hamstring injuries. Owen Beck’s absence, with no clear return date, leaves a gap in their defensive options. Similarly, Max Johnston and Sondre Langås are both out until early and mid-March, respectively, further limiting defensive depth.

These injuries necessitate tactical adjustments from coach John Eustace. He will likely need to rely on Joe Ward and Callum Elder, who featured in the last match’s defence, to fill the void left by the injured players. This reshuffle could affect Derby’s defensive stability, particularly against Hull’s potent attack.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Owen Beck	Hamstring Injury	Unknown
Max Johnston	Hamstring Injury	Early March 2026
Sondre Langås	Hamstring Injury	Mid March 2026

With a depleted backline, Derby may opt for a more conservative approach, potentially deploying a deeper defensive line to mitigate the impact of these absences. This could influence betting markets, as Derby’s defensive frailties might offer Hull a greater chance to capitalise on scoring opportunities.

Derby will need to lean heavily on their midfield and forward line to compensate for defensive weaknesses. Players like Ben Brereton Díaz and Rhian Brewster will be crucial in maintaining possession and alleviating pressure on the backline.

Derby Key Players

Patrick Agyemang stands out as Derby’s top scorer with 10 goals this season. His ability to find the net from various positions makes him a constant threat to any defence. Agyemang’s physical presence and keen sense of positioning allow him to exploit any gaps left by Hull’s backline. His role as the focal point in Derby’s attack will be crucial in breaking through a well-organised defence.

In midfield, Lewis Travis and Sammie Szmodics are pivotal for Derby’s tactical setup. Travis, known for his defensive capabilities and ball-winning skills, will be tasked with disrupting Hull’s playmaking efforts. Meanwhile, Szmodics provides creativity and vision, essential for linking play between midfield and attack. Their performances can dictate the pace and control of the game.

Expected lineup for Derby

• Goalkeeper: Josh Vickers
• Defence: Joe Ward, Dion Sanderson, Matt Clarke, Callum Elder
• Midfield: David Ozoh, Lewis Travis, Sammie Szmodics
• Forward: Ben Brereton Díaz, Rhian Brewster, Patrick Agyemang

Defensively, Matt Clarke is a key figure, offering solidity and leadership at the back. His experience and ability to read the game are vital in organising the defence, particularly against Hull’s attacking threats. Alongside him, Dion Sanderson provides pace and agility, crucial for covering the flanks and supporting the attack when needed. Together, they form a robust defensive partnership that Derby will rely on to keep a clean sheet.

Derby Tactics and Formation

Derby Tactical Breakdown:

• Previous Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Patrick Agyemang
• Midfield Dynamics: David Ozoh and Lewis Travis
• Defensive Challenges: Conceded in three of the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession but struggles in converting chances.

Derby County, under John Eustace, adopted a 4-2-3-1 formation in their recent match against Watford. This setup allows for a balanced approach, with a solid midfield pairing of David Ozoh and Lewis Travis providing both defensive cover and transitional play. However, the absence of a dedicated defensive midfielder could expose them to counter-attacks.

Despite maintaining 55% possession in their last outing, Derby’s main challenge lies in converting this control into tangible offensive success. The creative spark of Sammie Szmodics in the attacking midfield role is crucial, as he looks to link up with top scorer Patrick Agyemang, who has netted 10 goals this season.

Defensively, Derby have struggled to maintain clean sheets, conceding in three of their last five matches. The defensive line, featuring Joe Ward and Matt Clarke, needs to tighten up to avoid unnecessary goals against a Hull side known for their attacking prowess.

Hull vs Derby Head-to-Head Record

In the head-to-head record between Hull and Derby, Derby have the upper hand with 15 wins compared to Hull’s 8, alongside 4 draws. The last encounter saw Derby edge out a 2-1 victory at home in the Championship. This fixture has been a tough one for Hull, especially in recent meetings.

The last time Hull hosted Derby at the MKM Stadium, they suffered a narrow 0-1 defeat back in April 2025. Hull will be eager to turn the tide at home, but Derby’s recent form in this fixture suggests they may have the psychological edge.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Derby County	Hull City	2 – 1	Championship	2025-11-04
Hull City	Derby County	0 – 1	Championship	2025-04-26
Derby County	Hull City	1 – 1	Championship	2024-10-26
Derby County	Hull City	3 – 1	Championship	2022-02-08
Hull City	Derby County	0 – 1	Championship	2021-08-18