Middlesbrough take on the visitors Coventry in the second leg of English Championship playoff semifinals. The first leg result: 0-0. The match will be played on Wednesday, May 17th at Riverside Stadium (Middlesbrough).
In terms of gameplay, Carrick's team looked better than their opponents in the first match. They didn't score any goals, but an away draw can be considered a good result. The minimum target has been achieved. Unfortunately, in the recent rounds, the hosts have slightly slowed down and failed to win any of their last four matches. On the other hand, it's possible that Middlesbrough was simply conserving energy and giving their leaders some rest. Let's not forget that Middlesbrough is the second-highest scoring team in the Championship, with only three goals less than Burnley. At home, Middlesbrough has lost only three matches this season, which is also the second-best record.
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In their last eighteen games, Coventry City have lost only once, but they have drawn half of their matches. Most of their points were earned against teams in the lower half of the table. They haven't shown anything extraordinary; the main thing is that they haven't collapsed. They only just managed to scrape into the playoffs in their last match. The team doesn't concede too many goals, but they do so consistently, averaging one goal per away game. Mark Robins' team is rightfully considered the underdog among the four teams that have made it to the most important matches.
Bookmakers consider Middlesbrough the favorites, and that's correct. The team plays very strongly, especially at home. Just because Coventry City managed to secure a draw at home without scoring doesn't mean their chances will improve in the away leg. Despite their winless streak, Carrick's team should advance to the final. A safe bet would be on a handicap in favor of the hosts. At the very least, Middlesbrough won't lose. However, the focus is primarily on the attack. It's not particularly likely that this match will be decided in extra time or a penalty shootout. Frankly speaking, Middlesbrough are simply stronger.
Prediction for the match: Middlesbrough to win.
