Bradford City vs Middlesbrough
Carabao Cup
Round 3
Tuesday
26th September 2023
University of Bradford Stadium
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the EFL League Cup fixture between Bradford City and Middlesbrough.
Bradford City vs Middlesbrough: Preview
Bradford City form analysis
The Bantams in the 2nd round came with a 1-1 away draw against Wrexham in the League Cup, taking an early lead through a Smith penalty before being pegged back. A goalless draw away at Mansfield Town followed in the league. They then drew 1-1 at home against Grimsby, needing a late Gilliead equalizer to claim a point after going behind.
Bradford again had to come from behind in their next match, salvaging a 1-1 home draw with Harrogate thanks to Walker’s late leveler. Most recently, Bradford earned an impressive 1-4 away win against Newport County courtesy of a hat-trick from Cook.
Overall, Bradford have shown good spirit to earn points from losing positions in recent games. New signing Cook has impressed with his goalscoring, netting 4 already this term. However, a tendency to start slowly and concede first has been an issue. Building on the Newport win and tightening up defensively early in games will be key. But the fighting qualities displayed bode well if they can turn draws into wins.
Middlesbrough form analysis
Middlesbrough began their League Cup campaign with a 3-1 win at Bolton, coming from behind through goals from Crooks, McGree and Rogers. However, they lost 0-2 at home to QPR in the Championship. Boro then suffered a 1-2 home defeat to Blackburn, with Crooks’ goal not enough as defensive issues surfaced.
They stopped the rot with a creditable 1-1 draw away at Sheffield Wednesday, equalizing through Lenihan. Most recently, Middlesbrough earned an impressive 2-1 home win over Premier League Southampton in the League Cup, with McGree and Howson on target.
Overall, Middlesbrough have been inconsistent, mixing good performances with poor ones. New signings like McGree and Lenihan have added quality, and Crooks has impressed going forward. However, conceding cheap goals has been an issue at times. The wins over Bolton and Southampton showed Boro’s potential when focused. However, more consistency is required, especially defensively. But Carrick’s side have the talent if they can build on the positives.
