Stoke City host Preston North End in a match directly impacting the fight for a play-off spot. Stoke City, employing a 3-5-2 formation with high pressing, will aim to counter Preston's 4-4-2 defensive counter-attacking approach. Stoke City relies on the target play of forward Fletcher (7 goals) and wing-backs' crosses, with set pieces contributing 35% of their goals. They average 2 goals per home game, securing points in 60% of their home matches. Their defence, featuring three centre-backs and two defensive midfielders, aims to control play. However, injuries to key midfielders Joe Allen and Lewis Baker have weakened midfield control, resulting in 9 goals conceded in the last 6 games. They struggle against rapid counter-attacks, exposing gaps in the centre and on the flanks. Stoke City must intensify their home pressing, leverage set pieces, and utilise wing play to compensate for midfield deficiencies while guarding against Preston's counterattacks. Preston North End will likely concede possession, employing a defensive line to tire their opponents. They will rely on Sinclair and Potts (combined 9 goals and 8 assists) on the wings to launch attacks. Their counter-attacking efficiency is among the league's best, and they are unbeaten in their last 7 away games (3 wins, 4 draws), conceding only 0.5 goals per game. However, the absence of McCann in midfield impacts their offensive and defensive transitions. Their frontline relies on wing support for scoring opportunities, limiting their away attacking efficiency. Preston North End must focus on containing Stoke City's wing-backs, disrupting their aerial passes through midfield interceptions and exploiting opportunities for counter-attacks using their wingers' pace.