England Championship

Robin Cohen
Championship tips by:
Robin Cohen

Championship standings

MWDLGDLast 5P
1 Middlesbrough31187619
61
2 Coventry31178628
59
3 Millwall3216884
56
4 Ipswich30159622
54
5 Hull City3116697
54
6 Derby32139108
48
7 Preston32121284
48
8 Wrexham31121185
47
9 Bristol City31137115
46
10 Southampton321210104
46
11 Birmingham321210104
46
12 Watford32111293
45
13 QPR3212812-3
44
14 Stoke City32127135
43
15 Sheffield Utd32133160
42
16 Swansea3212614-1
42
17 Norwich32116150
39
18 Charlton3110912-8
39
19 Blackburn329815-11
35
20 West Brom329716-15
34
21 Portsmouth308913-12
33
22 Leicester3210814-7
32
23 Oxford United3261016-16
28
24 Sheffield Wednesday321823-45
-7
MWDLP
2 Coventry15113136
4 Ipswich16105135
1 Middlesbrough15103233
11 Birmingham1687131
3 Millwall1693430
12 Watford1685329
16 Swansea1684428
5 Hull City1683527
7 Preston1776427
13 QPR1682626
10 Southampton1575326
18 Charlton1574425
9 Bristol City1673624
8 Wrexham1666424
15 Sheffield Utd1572623
20 West Brom1565423
21 Portsmouth1664622
22 Leicester1664622
14 Stoke City1563621
6 Derby1756621
17 Norwich1551916
23 Oxford United1636715
19 Blackburn1635814
24 Sheffield Wednesday1704134
MWDLP
1 Middlesbrough1684428
5 Hull City1583427
6 Derby1583427
3 Millwall1675426
8 Wrexham1565423
17 Norwich1765623
2 Coventry1665523
9 Bristol City1564522
14 Stoke City1764722
7 Preston1556421
19 Blackburn1663721
10 Southampton1755720
15 Sheffield Utd17611019
4 Ipswich1454519
13 QPR1646618
22 Leicester1644816
12 Watford1637616
11 Birmingham1643915
16 Swansea16421014
18 Charlton1635814
23 Oxford United1634913
20 West Brom17321211
21 Portsmouth1425711
24 Sheffield Wednesday1514107

Fixtures Championship

Predictions
FT19:4510 FebLeicesterSouthampton 34
Draw
3.47
Nostrabet's Analysis

Southampton is back in form and is looking for opportunities to climb higher in the league standings. Next up is a visit from familiar foes Leicester.

The hosts are facing challenges

After receiving a six-point penalty, the "Foxes" suddenly find themselves in a relegation battle, which comes at a difficult time considering the team's overall poor form. Interim manager Andy King has been managing decently, but he has yet to secure a point in his first two matches, and now he faces a tough task against the "Saints." This match is quite tricky to predict, and it seems likely that both teams might settle for a draw in the end.

Betting on a Draw

This is a risky suggestion, which is not one that is recommended with great enthusiasm.

FT19:4510 FebOxford UnitedNorwich 03
Over 1.5 Goals
1.33
Nostrabet's Analysis

Norwich continues to climb the Championship standings and recently secured a valuable victory over Blackburn. Next up is a visit from Oxford.

The hosts managed to earn a point against Coventry

In a challenging away match, Matt Bloomfield's team managed to gain a point for their confidence. However, in home fixtures against rivals at the bottom of the table, winning is essential. Norwich, on the other hand, will not want to allow any decline, especially as they are only four points above the relegation zone and must remain fully focused. It is believed that the "Canaries" are unlikely to lose, and this match could see a few more goals than usual.

Bet on X2 and over 1.5 goals

Oxford is fighting hard, but the quality of the hosts is unlikely to be matched by them.

FT20:0010 FebBirminghamWest Brom 00
Asian Handicap: Away +0.5
1.92
Nostrabet's Analysis

Birmingham and West Bromwich Albion are currently on quite different runs of form. The upcoming clash at St. Andrew's will reveal who comes out on top.

The visitors remain uncertain

West Brom managed to secure a point against Stoke at home over the weekend, but their performance was far from convincing, leaving doubts about their ability to replicate that result here. On the other hand, this is the Championship, where surprises are always possible, and the hosts are not entirely invulnerable. Birmingham could find themselves in the top six with a victory here, having recently triumphed over Leicester. Conversely, West Brom is currently fighting to avoid relegation, so they are expected to throw everything into this match to secure at least another crucial point.

Bet on X2 and both teams to score

It will be interesting to see if Eric Ramsey's side can snatch something from this encounter.

FT19:4511 FebCharltonStoke City 10
Over 7.5 Corners
1.29
Nostrabet's Analysis

Charlton continues its fight for survival, with Nathan Jones's team finding ways to accumulate points. Next up is a home match against Stoke City.

Visitors facing significant issues

The "Potters" are once again five matches without a victory, having drawn 0-0 against WBA away over the weekend. Now, Mark Robbins's side may decide to adopt a more aggressive approach against Charlton, who are not the most formidable team. However, the hosts are solid in front of their fans and will be aiming for a win to further distance themselves from the relegation zone. While a final score prediction is challenging, it seems likely that there could be one or two goals in the match.

Bet on over 1.5 goals

This is a modest prediction for a match that may not necessarily be recommended.

FT15:0014 FebSheffield WednesdayMillwall 12
Asian Handicap: Home +1.5
1.78
Nostrabet's Analysis
FT15:0014 FebQPRBlackburn 13
Double Chance: 1x
1.37
Nostrabet's Analysis

QPR still has some chances for the playoffs in the Championship, but at present, they are far from being consistent enough to achieve this goal. They are set to host Blackburn.

The visitors are battling for survival

Blackburn continues to struggle, and it is no surprise that the team finds itself in the relegation zone, albeit just one point away from escaping it. The squad lost its last away match against Norwich, and it seems unlikely that they will manage to secure a victory against the solid team led by French coach Julien Stephan. The Londoners do not often lose, but they also do not win enough matches to be considered serious contenders for the top six.

Bet on 1X

Nonetheless, a double chance in favour of the "Rangers" is advisable.

FT15:0014 FebDerbySwansea 20
Under 2.5 Goals
1.67
Nostrabet's Analysis

Derby County suffered a defeat in their last match but remains close to the top six. It will be crucial for John Eustace's side to secure a victory against Swansea.

The Rams struggle in front of their fans

While Derby's away form has been impressive in recent weeks, they find it much more challenging to perform at home, which could hinder their chances of finishing in the playoff spots at the end of the season. Swansea is also facing difficulties away from Wales. The club is mid-table and has an opportunity to move closer to the top with a win here. However, it seems that the quality of the visitors may not be sufficient to entertain thoughts of playoffs.

Bet on under 2.5 goals

The match could begin in a cautious and tense manner.

FT15:0014 FebPortsmouthSheffield Utd 01
Double Chance: 1x
1.67
Nostrabet's Analysis

Portsmouth continues to fight for every point in the Championship as they attempt to escape the looming threat of relegation. They are set to host Sheffield United.

Visitors remain inconsistent

Chris Wilder's side appears unlikely to make a serious push for the playoffs. Despite having considerable talent within the squad, it is evident that much work is needed to rectify mistakes and discover the right formula for sustained success. This season, finishing in the mid-table would be a satisfactory achievement for the Blades. Playing on the South Coast is challenging, but Portsmouth have shown solid performances at home, where they aim to accumulate their points.

Bet on 1X

The advantage is given to the "Pompey" once again.

FT15:0014 FebPrestonWatford 22
Double Chance: 2x
1.37
Nostrabet's Analysis

Watford has fallen into a rather poor run of form and has distanced itself from the top six once again. Next up is a visit to Preston.

The hosts have ended their own winless streak

The team managed by Paul Heckingbottom is still fighting for a playoff spot and has been hovering around that position for yet another season, but it remains uncertain whether they will achieve their coveted goal. There is a strong feeling that this may not happen, and it would not be surprising if Preston encounters difficulties here. Watford is unpredictable and has a new manager at the helm - Ed Steele. It remains to be seen whether he can utilise what has been built over the past few months by Javi Gracia and breathe new life into the "Hornets" for the end of the season.

Bet on X2

A double chance is given in favour of Watford.

20:00CoventryMiddlesbrough
Over 1.5 Goals
1.23
Nostrabet's Analysis

Coventry has fallen into a significant slump regarding their form over the past month or so. Now, Frank Lampard's team must rally together for their home game against their direct competitor for the top spot - Middlesbrough.

The visitors are in excellent form

Kim Helberg's side has been winning consistently lately, allowing them to top the standings in the second tier of English football. They might enter this match as slight favourites. However, this is quite relative, as Coventry remains a formidable home team, and with a victory, they could reclaim the lead in the table. From this perspective, it would be unwise to write off Frank Lampard's men; in fact, they could be given the edge.

Bet on 1X and over 1.5 goals

It is believed that Coventry will be closer to securing the win.

19:4517 FebBristol CityWrexham
Double Chance: 2x
1.75
Nostrabet's Analysis

Wrexham progressed in the FA Cup on Friday evening, and they still have a genuine chance of securing the last playoff spot in the Championship. Next up is a visit to Bristol City.

The hosts are inconsistent

Bristol is currently an unpredictable opponent. Just two weeks ago, the team suffered a heavy 0-5 defeat at home to Derby County, only to turn around and defeat fifth-placed Hull 3-2 away just days later. It is always uncertain what to expect from the "red and whites," but in this instance, a slight advantage is given to the Welsh visitors. That 0-5 defeat may have shaken Bristol's confidence at home, while the visitors can play without pressure and possess the quality to achieve a result at Ashton Gate.

Bet on X2

A double chance in favour of Wrexham is the preferred option here.

The English Championship offers unpredictable, exciting action. As a division below the English Premier League, it’s a great league for betting. Indeed, big name former top level sides, sleeping giants, and emerging clubs vie for promotion to the big time.

Such high stakes often bring non-stop action and high-scoring games. Plus, if we look deeper into the stats and trends, potential value odds from match betting to handicaps and final league positions.

In this article, first, we’ll bring you an overview of Championship betting. Starting with five of the best betting markets and top betting strategies, and then answers to commonly asked questions to help you make informed Championship predictions.

Article Content

Understanding the English Championship for Betting

In this section we define how the Championship shapes up. First, how many teams play in the league, the fixture format, and total number of games played. Secondly, how fixture build-up can impact the betting markets. Then we talk about the fight for promotion and relegation. Finally, we look at home and away form trends, and the most common final scores in Championship games. Plus, we identify an interesting trend to watch out for.

League Structure & Key Fixtures

The Championship has 24 teams who play a 46-game league season, where each club plays each other twice, once home and away during August to May each campaign. After those 46 games, the top two teams gain promotion to the Premier League, joined by a playoff winner from the third to sixth place finishers. Likewise, the bottom three suffer relegation to League One.

Such a gruelling schedule means fixture congestion. For instance, games get rescheduled due to clashes with FA Cup or League Cup fixtures, or even bad weather. Also, there’s plenty of midweek games on top of weekend contests. So the players are affected by fatigue and possible injuries. This can even up the odds between fancied and unfavored teams.

Promotion & Relegation Battles

The race to win the Championship is fierce. All 24 teams battle to gain the most points and claim one of two automatic promotion spots. The playoffs add more spice to the season’s climax. As the top clubs down to mid-table sides battle for a playoff spot and the chance to play in the Premier League.

Likewise, competition is just as hot at the opposite end of the table. Clubs strive to avoid a bottom-three finish and relegation to League One.

Across the campaign, momentum shifts are common. For example, teams can find form and quickly climb the table to a playoff position. Or have a dip in form to slide down towards the danger zone.

Key Stats & Trends for Betting

It’s vital to analyse match stats and trends to gain an edge for your Championship footbal predictions. So scan the home and away form trends for some pointers. Judging by analysis, some teams are successful when playing at home, but they might gain fewer points playing away.

According to the stats, 1-1 was the most common Championship scoreline in 2024-2025. With 15.44% of games ending one a piece, followed by 1-0 at 10.59%. Suggesting a wager on those specific correct scores could be worthwhile.

Betting trend: However, in contrast to the most popular scoreline stat. In the 2024-2025 Championship, 45% of matches featured over 2.5 goals. So many games also feature plenty of goals.


Best Betting Markets for the Championship

We’ve chosen five of the best betting markets for Championship predictions for Saturday. Starting with Match Betting, you choose one of three outcomes. Moving on to a prediction of whether a specific match will have more or fewer than a specific number of goals. Then, both teams will score, yes or no, and handicap bets with plus or minus head starts. And finally, promotion and relegation betting odds.

Now, let’s introduce the top markets listed below.

Match Betting (1X2)

This is betting on either the home team to win, the draw, or an away win. When does it make sense to back the favourites to beat the underdogs? When the favourites have no injuries, are in good form, and their odds are not too short. Or if the odds are tempting, you may wish to back the underdogs to win.

Furthermore, based on analysis, the Championship produces many draw outcomes. In fact, 2024-2025 saw 157 of 557 games (28%) ended in draws. And in the previous five seasons the figure hovered between 24% to 29%. This makes the draw tempting value at around 3.0 to 3.6 betting odds in most fixtures.

Over/Under Goals

Here you make a prediction on how many goals will be scored in a match. Over/under goals markets go from over/under 0.5 goals (at least one goal), up to over 6.5 goals and more.

The Championship is a high-scoring competition because teams play a high-tempo, direct style. So this sees lots of possession turnovers, player errors, and goals are plenty.

Over 2.5 Goals can be a good market to try if you see generous odds. According to the latest stats, the Championship produces an average of 2.45 goals per game.

Both Teams to Score (BTTS)

As discussed, Championship matches are open and high-octane, with lots of goalscoring action. Most teams play all-out, often leading to both teams scoring. So Both Teams To Score (BTTS) can offer tempting value.

Research matches where both teams are predicted to score lots of goals, yet also concede lots. Also, check each team’s recent form, past meetings, and current season stats. Then you can pick sensible championship score predictions.

Handicap Betting

This is a useful betting option when an odds-on favourite plays a heavy underdog. You could bet on the favourite with a -2 handicap, where they need to win by three clear goals for your bet to land. Or, betting on the underdog with a +1 handicap gives them a one-goal advantage. Which could be successful if they draw or lose by only one goal.

Promotional & Relegation Odds

Whether you’re tempted by a pre-season antepost bet, or betting during the season, wagering on promotion and relegation outcomes adds an extra layer of excitement to Championship predictions. You can stake on which team will win the league. Or one or several teams to gain promotion, who will win the playoffs, or which teams will suffer relegation.

Such longer-term bets can offer decent value, especially if you notice a trend early in the season. Is there an overpriced possible title challenger? Or a team that might struggle more than expected?


Expert Betting Strategies for the Championship

Next, let’s define the best strategies for successful Championship predictions. We’ll run through sensible strategies like bankroll management for long-term betting. Then how to exploit live betting in Championship games. And how to swerve common betting mistakes like overreacting to short-term wins or losses. Or not looking at player injuries and individual match conditions. And poor betting discipline such as chasing losses.

Follow these handy tips to level up your English Championship predictions this season and beyond. Keep to an informed, clear strategy to maintain long-term profitability in this exciting league.

Bankroll Management

Proper bankroll management is key for profitable long-term betting. First, decide how much money you have to bet. Next, spread your bets on many events instead of risking all on one match. You could use flat staking to bet a specific amount each time. Or bet with a percentage of the total bankroll per bet. This helps you reduce risk, manage variance, and stay disciplined in backing those Championship predictions.

In-Play Betting Tips

Championship in-play betting can offer many opportunities. Check for in-game changes that aren’t reflected in the current odds. Let’s say if an underdog starts a match playing above expectations, their odds could be good value.

Or wait until half-time and consider backing over 2.5 goals if you foresee more goals. Be aware of live statistics combined with your intuition to make the best Championship predictions.

Avoiding Common Betting Mistakes

Consistency, discipline, and patience are essential to avoid mistakes in your betting. So to maximise your chances of wagering success. Before placing a bet, consider that recent form isn’t always accurate. Look into the pre-match stats. Also, injuries, suspensions, and fixture congestion should be looked at to identify possible mispriced odds.

Stay consistent with your betting strategy. Research the odds and remove emotions when betting. Never chase your losses, which could lead to further losses.


The Best Bookmakers for Championship Betting

All leading bookmakers offer betting markets for EFL Championship matches. The UK betting sites often provide special bonuses for betting on Championship games. These include boosted odds, acca bet boosts, free bets, and more rewards, depending on the bookmaker.

Bet365, Betfred and betway are among the trusted UK bookmakers that are great for Championship predictions. They offer great odds and new customer offers that can be used on the upcoming games from England’s second-level football league.


Conclusion

To sum up, the Championship offers great betting value. The 46-game-long season provides twists and turns. For instance, promotion thrills, relegation battles, and hard-fought matches with plenty of betting markets available. From pre-match to live betting, or across the whole season, stay updated to grab the best value.

Make sure you follow us to get weekly updates on the best Championship betting tips. From predictions to unique insights and strategies, we want to help you make smart Championship predictions today.


FAQ

Is the Championship a good league for betting?

The Championship is a solid option for football betting. It features plenty of matches, lots of goals, and varied markets for championship football predictions.

How does promotion/relegation affect betting odds?

If a team is battling for promotion or to avoid relegation, they have extra motivation compared to a mid-table team with nothing to play for.

Which betting market is most profitable in the Championship?

Betting on over 2.5 goals is one of the best Championship tips. As stated above, 45% of games had over 2.5 goals in 2024-2025. So it may be worth taking a chance on a high-scoring result.

Are draws common in the Championship?

Yes, draws are common in the Championship. According to the stats, 2024-2025 saw 156 draws in 557 matches, including the playoffs (28.3% draw rate). So it’s in line with previous records of 20-30% draws.

Should I bet on the favourites in the Championship?

In this unpredictable league, favourites often fail to win. Short odds favourites may not always be good betting value, as the high draw rate suggests. So consider all angles when making Championship predictions for Saturday.