Charlton – Middlesbrough

Charlton host Middlesbrough in what promises to be a tightly contested fixture, with the hosts sitting seventh on 12 points after three wins, three draws and a single loss, scoring six and conceding seven. Middlesbrough sit just above them in fifth place, having amassed 13 points from four victories, one draw and one defeat, and enjoy a modest +4 goal difference (12‑8). The narrow one‑point gap and the similar defensive records suggest a battle for the vital three points, especially as both sides aim to climb into the top‑four. Historically the two clubs have traded blows evenly this season, so the outcome could swing the league table and intensify the race for promotion.