“A good chance”: Oxford United vs Birmingham City predictions

The72’s writers have shared their Oxford United vs Birmingham City predictions ahead of Saturday’s Championship showdown.

Oxford United welcome Birmingham City to the Kassam Stadium knowing three points could be crucial in their battle to avoid relegation. The U’s remain locked in a tense survival fight, but recent results have lifted the mood. A run of two draws and a victory has injected belief following the appointment of Matt Bloomfield, even though Oxford still sit three points adrift of safety.

That optimism was further fuelled by an impressive 2-1 win over Leicester City last time out. Bloomfield’s side have shown renewed resilience and organisation in recent weeks, and they will be hoping to carry that momentum into this weekend’s clash.

January signing Myles Peart-Harris featured in the win over Leicester, while Jamie Donley is yet to make his debut as Oxford continue to strengthen and evolve under their new boss.

While Oxford are scrapping for survival, Birmingham City arrive with different ambitions. The Blues are eyeing a late push for the play-offs and currently sit 12th in the table, five points outside the top six. They have won two of their last five matches, with a 1-1 draw against Stoke City last time out providing a solid if unspectacular result.

Encouragement has come from the form of summer recruit Marvin Ducksch. The German forward has scored seven goals this season, including three in his last four Championship outings. Although August Priske is pushing for a starting spot, Ducksch looks set to retain his place if his strong form continues.

Here’s how some of The72’s writers see the contest unfolding:

Matt Bottomley
Bloomfield has made an immediate impression since taking charge at Oxford United, with the team looking more confident defensively and sharper in attack. There is a clear structure and game plan beginning to take shape.

Birmingham City, meanwhile, have been largely underwhelming this season and appear destined for mid-table. While they’ll hope a big win could spark a late surge, this will be a stern test against a side fighting for its life.

With both teams desperate for points but wary of defeat, Bottomley believes a draw is the most likely outcome.
Prediction: Oxford United 1-1 Birmingham City

James Ray
Oxford United’s start under Bloomfield has been hugely encouraging. Five points from three matches and just one goal conceded suggest the U’s have been hardened for the relegation run-in.

Back at home, Oxford will be eager to build on their eye-catching win over Leicester City, especially given Birmingham’s struggles away from home. Although the Blues earned a 2-0 win at Sheffield Wednesday recently, that result followed a poor run of six defeats in eight away games.

Birmingham may feel the need to push for a win, but their away form remains a concern. Ray expects Oxford to make things difficult once again and pick up another valuable point.
Prediction: Oxford United 1-1 Birmingham City