The second leg of the Championship playoff semi-final between Southampton and West Bromwich Albion promises to be a thrilling encounter.
With the first leg ending in a goalless draw, both teams will be eager to secure a victory at St. Mary's Stadium on Friday evening.
Match Preview
Southampton
Southampton enters the game with momentum, having secured a crucial win against Leeds United on the final day of the season.
Despite not winning the first leg, Russell Martin's side managed to keep a clean sheet, a significant improvement given their recent defensive struggles.
The Saints have found the net three times in their last five away fixtures but boast a much better record at home.
They will aim to replicate the form that saw them score eight goals in three consecutive home wins earlier in April.
West Brom
West Bromwich Albion, under Carlos Corberan, will look to break their winless streak against Southampton this season, having failed to secure a victory in their previous three encounters.
The Baggies have been resilient defensively, keeping clean sheets in their last two matches, including a solid 3-0 win over Preston North End.
However, their away form has been less impressive, with their last victory on the road dating back to March 10 against Huddersfield Town.
Team News
Southampton is hopeful that key striker Che Adams will overcome a calf issue to start the match, potentially replacing Sekou Mara in the lineup.
Gavin Bazunu and Juan Larios remain sidelined due to long-term injuries. Ross Stewart, who recently returned to action, is expected to start from the bench.
West Bromwich Albion might see Jed Wallace replace Tom Fellows on the right flank.
Jayson Molumby and Daryl Dike are confirmed absentees, while Josh Maja will be given a fitness test to determine his availability.
Predicted Lineups
Southampton (3-5-2): McCarthy; Harwood-Bellis, Bednarek, Stephens; Walker-Peters, Smallbone, Downes, Aribo, Manning; Adams, Armstrong.
West Bromwich Albion (4-2-3-1): Palmer; Furlong, Bartley, Kipre, Townsend; Yokuslu, Mowatt; Wallace, Diangana, Johnston; Thomas-Asante.
Prediction
Considering their superior home form and attacking prowess, Southampton is favoured to edge out West Brom in a tightly contested match.
Our prediction is a 2-1 victory for Southampton, allowing them to progress with a 2-1 aggregate score.
FAQ
When and where is the match taking place? The match between Southampton and West Bromwich Albion is scheduled for Friday, May 17, 2024, at St. Mary's Stadium.
What was the result of the first leg? The first leg ended in a goalless draw (0-0).
How has Southampton performed recently? Southampton has shown improved form recently, notably defeating Leeds United on the final day of the season. They have struggled with scoring in away games but have a strong home record, scoring eight goals in three consecutive home wins in early April.
What is West Bromwich Albion's recent form like? West Bromwich Albion has been solid defensively, keeping clean sheets in their last two matches. However, their away form has been inconsistent, with their last away win dating back to March 10, 2024.
Are there any notable injuries or absentees? Southampton: Gavin Bazunu and Juan Larios are long-term absentees. Che Adams is recovering from a calf issue and may play, while Ross Stewart is expected to start on the bench. West Bromwich Albion: Jayson Molumby and Daryl Dike are certain absentees. Josh Maja will undergo a fitness test to determine his availability.
