Championship Clash: Middlesbrough and Blackburn Rovers Face Off in a Midweek Encounter, Analyzing Form and Tactical Approaches in a Crucial Championship Matchup

Middlesbrough's recent form shows a mixed bag, with 3 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss in their last 6 matches. At home, they've been solid, remaining undefeated with 2 wins and 2 draws, scoring 8 goals and conceding 5. Their defensive setup is anchored by centre-back Darragh Lenihan, averaging 6.4 clearances per game and boasting an 82% success rate in aerial duels. He often partners with Paddy McNair, contributing to two clean sheets. Middlesbrough typically deploy a 4-3-3 formation, with Jonathan Howson proving key in midfield, averaging 2.8 key passes and 3.0 tackles per game, offering both defensive solidity and offensive creativity. Their attack relies on wing play and set-pieces, with a 37% success rate from right-sided crosses and set-pieces accounting for 32% of their goals. Forward Josh Coburn has scored 3 goals in his last 5 appearances. However, their shots on target average is only 10.6 per game. Blackburn Rovers' form is less impressive, with 2 wins, 3 draws, and 1 loss in their last 6 matches. Their away record is 1 win, 2 draws, and 1 loss. Ben Brereton Díaz is a key player, averaging 2.9 key passes per game and contributing 3 goals and 2 assists in his last 5 appearances, with a shooting accuracy of 56%. John Buckley is pivotal in midfield, averaging 88 passes per game with a 91% success rate and 2.7 key passes per game, acting as the team's creative hub. They maintain an average possession of 56%, with 59% of their attacks coming from the flanks and a 38% success rate from left-sided crosses. Defensively, they average 10.1 tackles per game, but will be missing key central defender Scott Wharton, who is out injured. Prediction: Blackburn Rovers