UEFA Nations event
English football fans are always eager to see who makes the starting XI.
The upcoming Championship clash between Stoke City and Middlesbrough is set for 21.01.2026 at 20:00. Here you’ll find everything about confirmed lineups, tactical approaches, and recent performances leading into one of the most anticipated fixtures in England.
Pre-Match Overview
Both clubs come into this Championship encounter with contrasting form and ambitions.
Stoke City, currently sitting - in the standings, will look to secure valuable home points, while Middlesbrough, positioned -, aim to continue their climb up the Championship table.
Key match info:
- Country: England
- Date: 21.01.2026
- Kickoff: 20:00
- Favorite: Middlesbrough
This fixture has a rich history — the sides last met on 30.09.2025, finishing Middlesbrough 0-0 Stoke City.
Stoke City Starting XI and Tactical Notes
The Stoke City squad has been dominant at home throughout the Championship 2026 campaign.
Fans searching for the Stoke City lineup today or Stoke City starting XI can find it on this page.
The manager’s choices this week will likely focus on:
- Maintaining defensive stability after recent fixtures
- Enhancing midfield control and quick transitions
- Maximizing forward efficiency in the final third
Recent Stoke City home performances:
Date Event Score 04.01.2026 Norwich City vs Stoke City 0 - 2 01.01.2026 Hull City vs Stoke City 0 - 1 29.12.2025 Stoke City vs Sheffield United 1 - 2
Middlesbrough Confirmed Lineup
The visitors Middlesbrough have been unpredictable this season but remain dangerous against top sides.
Their confirmed lineup for today’s Championship game will soon be announced on this page.
Performance overview:
- League standing: -
- Recent head-to-head record: Middlesbrough 0-0 Stoke City
- Wins this season over Stoke City: 8
Recent away match stats for Middlesbrough:
Date Event Score 04.01.2026 Middlesbrough vs Southampton 4 - 0 01.01.2026 Derby County vs Middlesbrough 1 - 0 29.12.2025 Middlesbrough vs Hull City 0 - 1
Prediction and Final Word
As of 09.01.2026, odds point to Middlesbrough as the likely winner, but English football rarely follows the script. Weather, intensity, and tactical precision will all influence the result.
The confirmed Stoke City and Middlesbrough lineups for the Championship 2026 season will be updated here once available — stay tuned for the latest lineup news, formations, and player performances.
