Middlesbrough vs Plymouth Argyle Prediction: Middlesbrough made it difficult for themselves for playoff

Middlesbrough will welcome Plymouth Argyle at Riverside Stadium in Game Week 34 of the English Championship. Middlesbrough have made it difficult for themselves as playoff contenders. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes?

Following five matches without a victory in all competitions, Middlesbrough faced a tough challenge against league leaders Leicester City last weekend. However, Michael Carrick's team delivered an impressive performance and secured a 2-1 win at the King Power Stadium. This win, their first in five weeks, has kept them in contention for the playoffs, especially since they have a game in hand. Despite this, they still trail sixth place by 10 points, emphasizing the need for consistency as they approach the crucial part of the season. Boro's poor home form, with only six wins out of 16 matches at the Riverside Stadium this season, has been a cause for concern.

Despite the success of the 4-5-1 formation used last week at Leicester, Boro manager Carrick is expected to revert back to a defensive four for the upcoming match. Paddy McNair may be replaced by either Sam Greenwood or Marcus Forss in the center of the attack. Boro is currently dealing with injuries to eight players, including Jonny Howson and Hayden Hackney.

Glover; Ayling, Van den Berg, Clarke, Engel; Barlaser, O'Brien; McGree, Azaz, Silvera; Forss

In contrast, Plymouth enjoyed a decent start to February with two consecutive wins in the Championship, suggesting they were safe from a relegation battle. However, they have since struggled, going four games without a win and earning just one point. Facing tough opponents like Sunderland, Coventry City, Leeds United, and West Bromwich Albion has made it challenging for them. Despite a victory against Swansea City earlier in the month, Plymouth still have one of the worst away records in the league, gaining only nine points from 16 away matches. Foster is likely to make changes to the Plymouth lineup, with Jordan Houghton possibly returning to the midfield. Bali Mumba or Lino Sousa could be replaced at wing-back by Matthew Sorinola.

Hazard; Phillips, Gibson, Galloway; Sorinola, Houghton, Gyabi, Mumba; Whittaker, Devine, Hardie

Due to Middlesbrough's inconsistent performance this season, a surprise victory for Plymouth cannot be ruled out. However, we predict that Boro will narrowly win this match, possibly with a late goal.