Derby – Middlesbrough

Derby host Middlesbrough in a clash that pits a struggling 22nd‑place side, currently on four points from one win and one draw, against a fifth‑placed outfit boasting 13 points from four victories, a draw and a single loss. The home team has endured five defeats and a goal deficit of 6‑13, while Middlesbrough enjoy a positive goal difference of 12‑8 and have proven their attacking edge throughout the campaign. Historically, the gap in form suggests the visitors will enter the match as clear favorites, looking to consolidate their push for the top spots. For Derby, the fixture offers a rare chance to snap their poor run and climb out of the relegation zone, but they will need to tighten up defensively and find a way to match Middlesbrough’s superior firepower.