Middlesbrough vs Norwich Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 31 January

Middlesbrough vs Norwich Prediction, Match Preview: This Saturday, 31 January, the Championship presents an intriguing clash as Middlesbrough host Norwich City at the Riverside Stadium. Both teams are seeking crucial points in their push for promotion, making this encounter particularly significant. Middlesbrough, playing at home, will be looking to capitalise on familiar surroundings to gain an advantage over their opponents.

Norwich City, on the other hand, will aim to assert their strength on the road and challenge Middlesbrough’s ambitions. With both teams demonstrating competitive form in the league, this match promises to be a closely contested battle. The outcome could have important implications for the standings, as each side seeks to strengthen their position in the Championship table.

Middlesbrough vs Norwich City Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Middlesbrough to Win	1.67

Given the current form and historical head-to-head record, our recommended betting tip is for Middlesbrough to win. They have been in superb form, winning four of their last five matches, and boast a dominant record against Norwich City, remaining unbeaten in their last seven encounters.

• Middlesbrough have shown impressive form with four wins out of their last five matches, giving them strong momentum.
• Norwich City are dealing with significant injuries, especially in defence, which could hinder their performance.
• Middlesbrough have a strong recent head-to-head record against Norwich City, which adds confidence to this prediction.

Betting Odds

Middlesbrough step onto the Riverside Stadium pitch as the favourites with odds of 1.67, reflecting their strong home form. Norwich City, however, should not be underestimated, coming in at 4.68, which could appeal to those seeking an upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
Middlesbrough to win	1.67
Draw	3.85
Norwich to win	4.68

The draw is priced at 3.85, suggesting a competitive match. With both teams possessing a knack for finding the net, the over 2.5 goals market might be worth considering for those expecting an open game.

Middlesbrough Analysis & Past Performance

Middlesbrough have been in impressive form, currently sitting in 2nd place in the Championship with 55 points. Over their last five league matches, they have secured four wins and suffered just one defeat. Notably, their recent 4-0 victory against Preston North End highlighted their attacking prowess and defensive solidity at the Riverside Stadium.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Middlesbrough	Preston	4 – 0 (Win)	Championship	24 Jan 2026
Stoke	Middlesbrough	1 – 2 (Win)	Championship	21 Jan 2026
West Bromwich	Middlesbrough	2 – 3 (Win)	Championship	16 Jan 2026
Fulham	Middlesbrough	3 – 1 (Loss)	FA Cup	10 Jan 2026
Middlesbrough	Southampton	4 – 0 (Win)	Championship	4 Jan 2026

Recent Form:

• WWWLW

Middlesbrough’s attack has been particularly effective, averaging 2.80 goals per match in their last five fixtures. Defensively, they have managed to keep two clean sheets, conceding an average of 1.20 goals per game. At home, Middlesbrough remain strong with a win ratio of 0.60, having won 3 out of their last 5 home matches. Morgan Whittaker is a key figure, contributing significantly with 11 goals this season.

Middlesbrough Suspensions & Injuries

Middlesbrough face significant challenges due to injuries, impacting their defensive and midfield options. The absence of Seny Dieng, a key figure between the posts, means reliance on Solomon Brynn will continue. The defence is further weakened by injuries to Darragh Lenihan, George Edmundson, and Alfie Jones, necessitating a reshuffle in the backline, with Dael Fry and Adilson Malanda expected to step up.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Seny Dieng	Achilles tendon injury	Early February 2026
Darragh Lenihan	Ankle injury	Mid February 2026
George Edmundson	Hip injury	Early February 2026
Alfie Jones	Ankle injury	Early February 2026
David Strelec	Ankle injury	Early February 2026
Alex Bangura	Muscle injury	Early February 2026
Kaly Sene	Leg injury	Early February 2026

With Alex Bangura and Kaly Sene also sidelined, Middlesbrough’s midfield depth is tested. Alan Browne and Hayden Hackney must take on more significant roles in midfield, while Aidan Morris will be crucial in maintaining balance. Up front, the absence of David Strelec due to an ankle injury may see Morgan Whittaker assuming a more prominent attacking role.

These absences place the onus on Middlesbrough’s available squad to adapt tactically, potentially influencing betting markets as they face Norwich City. Tactical adjustments may include a more conservative approach, focusing on solidifying the midfield to compensate for defensive vulnerabilities.

Middlesbrough Key Players

Middlesbrough’s attacking threat is spearheaded by Morgan Whittaker, the team’s top scorer with 11 goals this season. His ability to exploit spaces and his clinical finishing make him a constant threat to opposing defences. Operating in midfield, Whittaker’s role as a playmaker allows him to influence the game by linking play and creating goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Another player to watch is Leo Castledine, whose versatility in the forward line provides tactical flexibility. Castledine’s ability to drop deep and collect the ball helps in connecting the midfield with the attack, making him pivotal in transitional play. In defence, Dael Fry stands out with his commanding presence and leadership, crucial for maintaining defensive solidity.

Expected lineup for Middlesbrough:

• Goalkeeper: Solomon Brynn
• Defenders: Luke Ayling, Adilson Malanda, Dael Fry, Matthew Targett
• Midfielders: Hayden Hackney, Aidan Morris, Morgan Whittaker
• Forwards: Leo Castledine, Alan Browne, Tommy Conway

Middlesbrough Tactics and Formation

Middlesbrough Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Likely 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Morgan Whittaker
• Midfield Pivot: Alan Browne and Hayden Hackney
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession play with aggressive forward pressing.

Middlesbrough, under the guidance of head coach Kim Hellberg, typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation. This setup allows them to maintain a strong midfield presence with Alan Browne and Hayden Hackney facilitating both defensive cover and attacking transitions. Aidan Morris complements this dynamic with his ability to drive play forward.

Defensively, the backline of Luke Ayling, Dael Fry, Adilson Malanda, and Matt Targett provides a blend of experience and solidity. This has contributed to Middlesbrough’s ability to secure two clean sheets in recent matches, reflecting their improved defensive organisation.

Offensively, Middlesbrough leverage the pace and finishing ability of Morgan Whittaker, who is vital in converting possession into goals. Supported by Tommy Conway and Leo Castledine, this forward trio is adept at pressing high and exploiting defensive lapses, as demonstrated by their recent 4-0 victory over Preston North End.

Norwich City Analysis & Past Performance

Norwich City have been in strong form, winning four of their last five matches across all competitions. Notably, their recent victories include a commanding 5-0 triumph against West Bromwich Albion and a solid 2-1 win over Coventry City, demonstrating their attacking prowess and tactical flexibility.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Norwich	Coventry	2 – 1 (Win)	Championship	26 Jan 2026
West Bromwich	Norwich	0 – 5 (Win)	Championship	20 Jan 2026
Wrexham	Norwich	1 – 2 (Win)	Championship	17 Jan 2026
Norwich	Walsall	5 – 1 (Win)	FA Cup	11 Jan 2026
Norwich	Stoke	0 – 2 (Loss)	Championship	4 Jan 2026

Recent Form: Norwich City’s attack has been prolific, averaging 2.80 goals per game over their last five outings. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 1.00 goal per match, reflecting a stable backline. They’ve kept one clean sheet in this span, indicating occasional defensive lapses but overall resilience. Their current performance places them 18th in the league with 33 points, showcasing a steady climb up the standings.

• WWWWL

Norwich City Suspensions & Injuries

Norwich City face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries. Gabe Forsyth, Jeffrey Schlupp, Shane Duffy, and Amankwah Forson are all sidelined with injuries, expected to return in early February. This significantly impacts Norwich City’s defensive and midfield options, given their importance in providing stability and creativity. The absence of Ante Crnac and Mirko Topic due to long-term ligament injuries further depletes the squad depth, especially in central areas.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Gabe Forsyth	Knee injury	Early February 2026
Ante Crnac	Cruciate ligament injury	Early July 2026
Jeffrey Schlupp	Hamstring injury	Early February 2026
Mirko Topic	Cruciate ligament injury	Early August 2026
Shane Duffy	Muscle injury	Early February 2026
Amankwah Forson	Hamstring injury	Early February 2026
Lucien Mahovo	Muscle injury	Mid February 2026

With these injuries, Norwich City head coach Philippe Clement may need to rely on less experienced players to fill the gaps. In defence, the absence of Shane Duffy could mean more responsibility for Ruairi McConville and Jose Cordoba, who featured in the last match. In midfield, Tony Springett and Ali Ahmed will need to step up to compensate for the absence of Schlupp and Forson.

The tactical impact of these absences could see Norwich City adopting a more conservative approach, focusing on maintaining a solid structure and exploiting counter-attacking opportunities. The limited squad depth may also affect their ability to rotate players, impacting their performance as the match progresses. Bettors should consider the potential for a more defensive Norwich City setup, which might lead to fewer goals and a tighter contest against Middlesbrough.

Norwich City Key Players

Norwich City will be heavily relying on the form of their top scorer, Jovon Makama, who has impressively netted 10 goals this season. Makama’s prowess in front of goal makes him a constant threat, especially with his ability to find spaces and exploit defensive weaknesses. His partnership with Ali Ahmed in the forward line is pivotal, as Ahmed’s pace and creativity can create opportunities for Makama to capitalise on.

Key players such as Kenny McLean and Anis Ben Slimane in midfield will play crucial roles in dictating the tempo and providing the necessary link between defence and attack. McLean’s experience and vision make him an essential playmaker, while Slimane’s energy and technical skills add dynamism to the midfield.

Expected lineup for Norwich City:

• Goalkeeper: Vladan Kovacevic
• Defence: Kellen Fisher, Ruairi McConville, Jose Cordoba, Ben Chrisene
• Midfield: Pelle Mattsson, Kenny McLean, Anis Ben Slimane
• Forward: Tony Springett, Ali Ahmed, Jovon Makama

Defensively, the presence of Jose Cordoba will be vital for Norwich City. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions will be key in neutralising Middlesbrough’s attacking threats. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Vladan Kovacevic’s shot-stopping abilities will be crucial in maintaining defensive solidity. Norwich City’s tactical approach will likely focus on a balanced setup, leveraging their strengths in attack while ensuring defensive resilience.

Norwich City Tactics and Formation

Norwich City Tactical Breakdown:

• Recent Formation: 4-5-1
• Key Forward: Jovon Makama
• Midfield Dynamics: Kenny McLean and Anis Ben Slimane
• Defensive Challenges: Conceded in 4 of the last 5 games
• Notable Strategy: Midfield control with a focus on quick transitions.

Norwich City have recently favoured a 4-5-1 formation, allowing for a compact midfield setup. The presence of Kenny McLean and Anis Ben Slimane in the central areas provides the team with both defensive cover and creative options. This structure supports their strategy of maintaining possession and orchestrating play through the middle.

Offensively, Jovon Makama is pivotal in their setup as the lone striker. With 10 goals this season, his role is crucial in converting the team’s creative plays into tangible results. The wingers, such as Tony Springett, provide width and pace, stretching the opposition and creating spaces for Makama.

Defensively, Norwich City have struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding in four of their last five outings. The defensive line, featuring players like Jose Cordoba, must be more disciplined to prevent lapses that have previously cost the team. The tactical emphasis remains on improving defensive solidity while retaining their attacking edge.

Middlesbrough vs Norwich City Head-to-Head Record

In their last 20 head-to-head encounters, Middlesbrough hold a slight edge with 8 wins compared to Norwich City’s 7, while 5 matches have ended in draws. The most recent clash saw Middlesbrough triumph 2-1 away at Norwich City in the Championship, demonstrating their ability to perform on the road.

The last time these two met at the Riverside Stadium, it ended in a goalless draw, indicating a tight contest when Middlesbrough play host. Historically, Middlesbrough have been strong at home, which could be a crucial factor in this upcoming fixture.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Norwich City	Middlesbrough	1 – 2	Championship	2025-08-23
Middlesbrough	Norwich City	0 – 0	Championship	2025-04-26
Norwich City	Middlesbrough	3 – 3	Championship	2024-10-27
Middlesbrough	Norwich City	3 – 1	Championship	2024-03-06
Norwich City	Middlesbrough	1 – 2	Championship	2023-10-24