Verdict: Away win
Best odds: 173/100
Bookmaker: ZetBet
The Championship’s opening weekend features a Midlands showdown as Stoke City host Coventry City at the bet365 Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Stoke aim to break free from their run of midtable finishes, while Coventry will have their sights set on a long-awaited promotion to the Premier League after several near misses in recent years.
Stoke City
Since their relegation from the Premier League in 2018, Stoke City have experienced six consecutive seasons of bottom-half finishes in the Championship, leaving fans at the bet365 Stadium with little to cheer about. Facing a potential relegation battle early last season under Alex Neil, the club made a decisive managerial change in December by appointing Steven Schumacher, who had previously impressed at Plymouth Argyle. Schumacher successfully steered the Potters to safety, eventually finishing six points clear of the drop zone in 18th place.
Stoke’s struggles in front of goal were evident last season, with Portuguese winger Andre Vidigal finishing as the club’s top scorer with just six Championship goals. Recognizing the need for a stronger attacking presence, Schumacher has already begun addressing this issue by bringing in Sam Gallagher from Blackburn Rovers—a team expected to face significant challenges this season due to ongoing ownership uncertainties.
During their pre-season, Stoke faced off against EFL sides Crewe Alexandra, Bolton Wanderers, and Stockport County, concluding their preparations with a narrow defeat against Dutch giants AZ Alkmaar on August 3, where a goal from Troy Parrott secured the win for the visitors.
Team News
Stoke City have made several notable additions to their squad over the summer, particularly in defence. One of the most significant signings is Viktor Johansson, a goalkeeper highly regarded in the Championship for his performances with Rotherham United.
In addition to bolstering their goalkeeping options, Stoke have strengthened their back line by signing experienced defender Ben Gibson, who joined after leaving Norwich City. Gibson’s experience in both the Premier League and the Championship will be invaluable as Stoke look to improve on last season’s defensive record.
The club also expanded their recruitment efforts across Europe, successfully acquiring left-back Eric Junior Bocat from Belgian side St Truiden.
Coventry City
Coventry City endured a challenging 2023/24 campaign following their heartbreaking penalty-shootout defeat to Luton Town in the 2023 playoff final, which dashed their hopes of a Premier League return. Despite that setback, the Sky Blues couldn’t replicate their previous success, finishing midtable, three places and nine points adrift of the playoff spots, ultimately placing behind Norwich City in sixth.
However, their season wasn’t without its highlights, as Coventry embarked on an impressive FA Cup run, reaching the semi-finals at Wembley Stadium. Their journey ended in controversy, with a highly-debated VAR decision denying them a famous victory over Manchester United, managed by Erik ten Hag. This cup run, while memorable, stretched the Sky Blues’ limited squad depth, contributing to their inability to secure a top-six finish.
In response, Coventry’s summer transfer activity has focused on strengthening the squad to avoid a repeat of last season’s fatigue. The latest addition to their ranks is striker Brandon Thomas-Asante from West Bromwich Albion, who joins an attacking lineup that already includes Haji Wright and Ellis Simms. This move underscores Coventry’s intent to enhance their depth and quality in key positions.
Mark Robins, now entering his eighth season at the helm, continues to be a steadying influence at Coventry, making him the longest-serving manager in the Championship as the 2024-25 campaign kicks off. As he approaches his 400th game in charge, Robins will be aiming to guide the Sky Blues back into playoff contention and possibly beyond, building on the foundation laid over recent seasons.
Team News
A competitive fight for the starting goalkeeper position at Coventry appears to be afoot, with Ben Wilson, Bradley Collins, and new signing Oliver Dovin all vying for the role.
With the departure of fan favorite Callum O’Hare to Sheffield United, Jack Rudoni, a summer acquisition, is expected to add creativity to the midfield in their opening match on Saturday.
Conclusion
Stoke have had a strong pre-season but face a tough test against a Coventry team that operates smoothly under Mark Robins. The Sky Blues are accustomed to high-pressure games and will be eager to make the most of their opening weekend trip.
The visitors are therefore likely to end the game triumphant.
Verdict: Away win
Best odds: 173/100
Bookmaker: ZetBet
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