Southampton host Middlesbrough in decisive play-off semi-final

Southampton will host Middlesbrough at St Mary's Stadium on Tuesday night for the second leg of the Sky Bet Championship play-off semi-final. The first meeting between the two sides on Saturday ended in a 0-0 draw. Because of the goalless result, the winner of this return fixture will progress to the final at Wembley with the opportunity to reach the top flight for the 2026/27 season.

Tickets for the match at St Mary's are sold out. Southampton are expected to wear their traditional red and white striped shirts with white shorts and socks, while Middlesbrough will play in their blue and black home kits. The match is scheduled for an 8pm BST kick-off, with Andrew Madley officiating the game.

Southampton enter the tie following a recent run of form that includes a 5-1 win over Watford and a 1-0 victory against Sheffield Wednesday. They remain without Alex McCarthy and Mads Roerslev due to wrist and knee injuries. Jack Stephens is continuing his recovery from injury, while Kuryu Matsuki returned as a substitute during the first leg.

Striker Ross Stewart, who has scored ten goals in all competitions this season, remains a key figure for the hosts. Tommy Conway also features prominently after recording 18 goal contributions across 49 appearances this term. Middlesbrough arrive with confidence following a strong away record, having lost only one of their last 11 or 12 trips on the road.

Middlesbrough could see the return of Alex Bangura and Hayden Hackney for this decisive fixture. The visitors' recent form includes a 3-1 win over Ipswich Town and a 2-2 draw with Bristol City. The tie follows a history of competitive meetings, including a 1-1 draw in their most recent encounter in May 2026.