
A huge game in the context of the race for automatic promotion in the Championship.
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough
In a pivotal Championship clash, third-placed Ipswich Town welcome fifth-placed Middlesbrough to Portman Road on Sunday, April 19, 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 11:00 UTC. The Tractor Boys will be looking to consolidate their automatic promotion push, while the Teessiders are desperate for a victory to keep their own top-two aspirations alive.
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough Form
Ipswich suffered a disappointing 2-0 away defeat to relegation-threatened Portsmouth in their last outing, a result that tightened the race for automatic promotion. This loss comes amidst a mixed run of form for the Suffolk side, who have won three, drawn two, and lost one of their last six league matches. Their recent home form has been more solid, with three wins and three draws in their last six Championship games at Portman Road, demonstrating their strength on home turf.
Middlesbrough arrive in East Anglia in a concerning run of form, having failed to win any of their last six Championship matches. Their most recent fixture saw them fall to a 1-0 home defeat against Portsmouth. This extended their winless streak and highlights a significant dip in performance as they chase a play-off spot. Their away form has been slightly better, with three wins, two draws, and one loss in their last six on the road, but the overall picture is one of struggle.
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough Head to Head
The most recent encounter between these two sides took place in October 2025, where Middlesbrough secured a 2-1 victory over Ipswich at home.
Looking at the last six meetings, Middlesbrough have had the upper hand, winning three, drawing two, and losing just one against Ipswich. This suggests a historical advantage for the Teessiders in this fixture, despite their current struggles. Notably, Middlesbrough are undefeated in nine of their last ten matches against Ipswich across all competitions.
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough Predicted Lineups
Ipswich (4-2-3-1):
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Goalkeeper: Walton
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Defenders: Johnson (DL), Kipré (DC), O'Shea (DC), Furlong (DR)
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Midfielders: Matusiwa (DM), Neil (DM), Clarke (AML), Núñez (AMC), Philogene (AMR)
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Forward: Azón (FC)
Middlesbrough (4-2-2-2):
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Goalkeeper: Brynn
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Defenders: Targett, Malanda, Fry, Brittain
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Midfielders: Browne, Morris, Hansen, McGree
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Forwards: Strelec, Conway
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough Team News
Ipswich have several players managing fitness concerns. Leif Davis and Wes Burns both remain doubtful after missing their last game. Manager Kieran McKenna might opt for a change at left-back, potentially starting Ben Johnson. Further up the pitch, Jaden Philogene and Ivan Azón are pushing for starts, indicating a potential reshuffle in the attacking third for the home side. A. Young and C. Townsend are also injured and will miss the match.
Middlesbrough's injury list is more extensive. Matt Targett and Jeremy Sarmiento are currently managing fitness concerns and are doubtful for the trip. Alfie Jones and Leo Castledine will also be assessed closer to kick-off. A. Bangura, D. Lenihan, H. Hackney, and M. Whittaker are all confirmed injured. Sontje Hansen could be in line for a rare start in what would be a significant opportunity for the player.
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough Match Prediction
Our match prediction: Ipswich 2-1 Middlesbrough
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Ipswich conceded twice in the three minutes before half-time on Tuesday night as the Tractor Boys suffered a shock 2-0 away defeat to a relegation-threatened Portsmouth side. The midweek results brought Southampton into the automatic promotion conversation, but the ball is still in the home side's court heading into this contest.
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For Middlesbrough, the task is simple: they have to win to keep their top-two dreams alive. Kim Hellberg's men have fallen away at the end of the campaign and travel to Portman Road winless in six after losing 1-0 to Portsmouth last weekend. The Teessiders are three points behind their hosts, who have a game in hand.
Who is the favourite to win Ipswich vs Middlesbrough?
| Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| Ipswich | 11/8 |
| Draw | 27/10 |
| Middlesbrough | 41/20 |
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough Betting Trends
Marcelino Núñez – booked in 3 of last 4
Iván Azón – 1+ shots on target in last 4
Riley McGree – 3+ shots in last 3
Alan Browne – 3+ shots in 4 of last 5
Aidan Morris – 1+ shots on target in 5 of last 6
Morgan Whittaker – 3+ shots in 5 of last 8
Jack Clarke – 3+ fouls won in 5 of last 8
Hayden Hackney – goal or assist in 3 of last 4
Morgan Whittaker – 2+ shots in 7 of last 9
Hayden Hackney – 2+ shots in 7 of last 9
Wes Burns – booked in 2 of last 3
Iván Azón – booked in 2 of last 3
Riley McGree – booked in 2 of last 3
Aidan Morris – 3+ shots in 4 of last 6
Ipswich vs Middlesbrough Bet Builder Tip
McGree 2+ Shots, Jack Clarke 3+ Fouls Won, Marcelino Núñez 2+ Fouls
At the time of publishing it is a best price of 8/1 with bet365.








