The EFL Championship playoffs are set to commence this week, with four clubs vying for the coveted promotion to the Premier League. Millwall, Southampton, Middlesbrough, and Hull City will compete in the end-of-season tournament, with the winner securing a place in the top flight and the financial rewards that accompany it.
Contenders Overview
Three of the four sides have previous Premier League experience, with Southampton being the most recent. The Saints, under manager Tonda Eckert, aim for an immediate return following an impressive run of form. Middlesbrough have consistently occupied the upper echelons of the table throughout the season but faltered at the final hurdle. Hull City have impressed, snatching the final playoff spot on the last day. Millwall, the London-based club, have not been in the top flight since 1990 and seek to end that lengthy drought.
1. Southampton
Momentum is crucial in the playoffs, and Southampton possess it in abundance. Since Eckert's appointment, the Saints have been among the Championship's best sides. Their only defeats since the turn of the year have come against fellow playoff contenders Middlesbrough and Hull, plus an FA Cup loss to Manchester City. With quality players like Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Shea Charles, Leo Scienza, and Finn Azaz, Southampton enter their semi-final against Middlesbrough as favourites.
2. Middlesbrough
Following Rob Edwards' departure in November, Middlesbrough's season was expected to unravel. Instead, they improved under Kim Hellberg. Boro never dropped below eighth place and spent most of the campaign in the top two, but a late-season stumble cost them automatic promotion. Their streaky form could be an asset in the playoffs if they find the right rhythm, or a hindrance if they struggle to get going. Given their consistent performance all season, they remain among the favourites.
3. Millwall
Some argue Millwall should be favourites given their strong regular-season finish. The Lions placed third, just one point behind Ipswich Town. They won more games than any playoff rival and conceded fewer goals. However, they scored only 64 Championship goals, significantly fewer than their competitors. Additionally, their lack of recent playoff experience could prove a disadvantage.
4. Hull City
Having narrowly escaped relegation from the Championship last season, few expected Hull to mount a promotion push. Sergej Jakirović's side secured a playoff spot on the final day. Their primary weakness is defence, having conceded 66 league goals, seven more than relegated Oxford United. Such defensive fragility is ill-suited to tournament football. Unlike Southampton, Hull are struggling for form, winning just one of their last seven matches.
Prediction
Southampton are tipped to secure promotion.
