Burnley vs Middlesbrough

ChampionshipMatchweek 4
Ref: Matt Donohue, EnglandTurf Moor, Burnley · 22,546 cap
Fipster Pick
Away WinhighMiss
Full-time storyUpset

Burnley and Middlesbrough share spoils

A. Morris and U. Raghouber trade strikes in a balanced Championship clash

Middlesbrough took the lead through A. Morris in the first half, only for Burnley’s U. Raghouber to level the score after the break. The 1-1 draw defied Fipster’s high-confidence prediction of an away win, leaving both sides to settle for a point in this evenly matched encounter.

FıpsterSelf-Score Card
Overconfident✗ Miss
Fipster's Pick✗
2–3
HT 1–2
Final Result
1–1
HT 0–1
18%Poor
F
✗Outcome✗Exact score✓Both scored✗Goals✗Halftime
Fipster's self review2 Sept 2026

Outcome probability

Burnley 2%Draw 3%Middlesbrough 95%

The new season kicks off with Burnley, recently relegated from the Premier League, facing Middlesbrough. Both sides have been busy in the transfer market, shaping their squads for the challenges ahead. Fans can expect a lively encounter as these teams look to make a strong start.

Key facts

  1. 1.Middlesbrough finished 5th in their league last season with 80 points from 46 games.
  2. 2.Burnley were relegated down after finishing 19th with 22 points from 38 games.
  3. 3.Middlesbrough have a significantly better goal difference, scoring 62 more goals than Burnley last season.
  4. 4.Middlesbrough's points-per-game (1.74) notably surpass Burnley's (0.58).
  5. 5.Burnley signed A. Ahmedhodžić over the summer.
  6. 6.Middlesbrough strengthened their squad with W. Lankshear, K. Joseph, and R. Vítek.
  7. 7.The predicted fulltime score is 3-2 in favour of Middlesbrough.
  8. 8.Four cards are expected in this competitive fixture.

The context

Burnley enter this match down from the Premier League, aiming to bounce back after a tough campaign. Middlesbrough, meanwhile, remain in the Championship and have strengthened their squad with several signings over the summer. The clash marks a fresh chapter for both sides as they seek to establish momentum early in the season.

Player Insights

Standout players Fipster expects to impact the match — curated highlights, not full squad lists

Home — Burnley

Max Alleyne

Max Alleyne

Defender

Burnley

Total Passes
426
7 played
7 starts
607 mins
~87 mins/game
K. Walker

K. Walker

Defender

Burnley

Total Passes
349
7 played
6 starts
529 mins
~76 mins/game

Away — Middlesbrough

A. Morris

A. Morris

Midfielder

Middlesbrough

Total Passes
414
6 played
6 starts
498 mins
~83 mins/game
A. Malanda

A. Malanda

Midfielder

Middlesbrough

Total Passes
404
6 played
6 starts
499 mins
~83 mins/game
L. Ayling

L. Ayling

Defender

Middlesbrough

Total Passes
359
7 played
6 starts
427 mins
~61 mins/game

Analysis

Middlesbrough hold the statistical edge going into this fixture, with a notably stronger goal difference and points-per-game average last season compared to Burnley. Their summer acquisitions, including W. Lankshear, K. Joseph, and R. Vítek, add depth and quality to their ranks. Burnley have also bolstered their squad with the arrival of A. Ahmedhodžić but have seen some departures that may affect their cohesion. The predicted scoreline of 3-2 suggests an open game with both teams finding the net, but Middlesbrough's attacking prowess is expected to prevail.

Prediction

The forecast sees Middlesbrough clinching a 3-2 victory, with the halftime score likely to be 2-1 in their favour. The match is expected to feature four cards, indicating a competitive and physical encounter. This outcome reflects Middlesbrough's stronger position and squad enhancements, giving them the edge in this season opener.

The verdict

As the season gets underway, this fixture promises excitement and goals. Middlesbrough look set to start on a high note, while Burnley will be eager to prove their mettle after relegation. Fans should prepare for a spirited contest that could set the tone for both teams' campaigns.

Prediction Q&A

Who did Fipster predict to win Burnley vs Middlesbrough?
Fipster's AI model predicted Middlesbrough to win against Burnley.
What score did Fipster predict for Burnley vs Middlesbrough?
Fipster predicted a final score of Burnley 2–3 Middlesbrough.
What were the win probabilities for Burnley vs Middlesbrough?
Fipster's model gave Burnley a 2% chance of winning, Middlesbrough a 95% chance, and a 3% chance of a draw.
How confident was Fipster in this prediction?
Fipster's model assigned this prediction 95% confidence — a high-confidence call.