Southampton host Middlesbrough in Sky Bet Championship play-off semi-final

Southampton will host Middlesbrough at St Mary's Stadium on Tuesday, 12th May, for the second leg of their Sky Bet Championship play-off semi-final. Following a 0-0 draw in the first leg, the winner of this return fixture will progress to the final at Wembley. The winner of that match will secure a place in 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 appear in their blue and black home kits. The match is scheduled for an 8pm BST kick-off, with Andrew Madley officiating the game alongside assistants Nick Hopton and Craig Taylor.

Southampton enter the tie with Jack Stephens continuing his recovery from injury, though Kuryu Matsuki has returned to the squad after appearing as a substitute in the first leg. The hosts remain without Alex McCarthy, who is sidelined with a wrist injury, and Mads Roerslev, who is out with a knee injury. Ross Stewart, who has scored ten goals in 32 appearances this season, remains a key figure for the Saints.

Middlesbrough arrive for the second leg with Alex Bangura and Hayden Hackney nearing returns from injury. Tommy Conway, who has recorded 18 goal contributions in 49 appearances this season, was a threat during the first leg despite not scoring. Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg noted the team's strength away from home, stating they have lost only one in 11 or 12 away games and have scored against every opponent in that period.

Recent form shows both sides competing closely in the Championship. Middlesbrough's recent results include a 3-1 win against Ipswich Town and a 2-2 draw with Bristol City. Southampton have maintained a strong run at home, including a 5-1 victory over Watford and a 1-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday. The first leg draw means the tie remains completely balanced heading into Tuesday's encounter.