A preview of the Championship match between Birmingham City and Ipswich Town. Birmingham City is favored to win at home, given their recent promotion and squad improvements, but Ipswich Town seeks to bounce back after a disappointing Premier League season. The predicted score is a 4-2 victory for Birmingham City.
Next week, St. Andrew's will host a highly anticipated Championship match between Birmingham City and Ipswich Town. This clash pits Chris Davies's Birmingham side against Kieran McKenna's Ipswich, with kickoff set for 8pm UK time next Friday. Here's a closer look at what to expect.
Birmingham City is gearing up for their Championship return after a successful League One campaign. Their ambition is high, aiming for a playoff spot akin to Wrexham's aspirations.
Under Chris Davies, Birmingham has been busy in the transfer market, acquiring talents like Kyogo Furuhashi, Taylor Gardner-Hickman, and Demarai Gray, among others. However, their pre-season form has been inconsistent, with three wins and three losses.
Davies acknowledged their readiness, stating, "We’re ready in the sense we've brought players in, we've still probably got a little bit more to do as the window goes on... You definitely want a squad that you feel can be competitive to start the season."
Birmingham is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Ryan Allsop in goal and a defense featuring Bright Osayi-Samuel and Phil Neumann. The midfield will likely see Tomoki Iwata and Paik Seung-ho, supporting an attacking line led by Kyogo Furuhashi.
Meanwhile, Ipswich Town aims to bounce back after a disappointing Premier League season. They've added Azor Matusiwa and Ashley Young to their roster, seeking a swift return to the top flight.
Ashley Young praised manager Kieran McKenna, highlighting his winning mentality and influence, "He's a winner and you see that on the training pitch... I knew his beliefs, I knew what he wants to do with the club."
Ipswich is also anticipated to use a 4-2-3-1 setup, with Alex Palmer in goal and a defense including Ben Johnson and Luke Woolfenden. The midfield may feature Azor Matusiwa and Cameron Humphreys, with George Hirst leading the attack.
Key factors to consider include Ipswich's previous 3-1 victory over Birmingham, Birmingham's strong finish in League One, and Ipswich's struggles in the Premier League, particularly in scoring goals.
Given Birmingham's home advantage, recent form, and bolstered squad, they are favored to win this encounter. The prediction leans towards a high-scoring affair.
Prediction: Birmingham City to win 4-2
Best Odds: 33/1
Bookmaker: Zetbet