Southampton vs Swansea City prediction 26.12.2023

• Competition: Championship
• Date: Tuesday, 26th December 2023
• Kickoff: 15:00 UK / 16:00 CET
• Venue: St. Mary’s Stadium (Southampton)

In the 24th round of the Championship on Tuesday afternoon, Southampton, who are vying for promotion, will host Swansea City at St. Mary’s Stadium in Southampton.

Last season, Southampton was demoted from the Premier League, making them one of the top contenders for promotion this season, along with two other demoted teams, Leicester and Leeds. The Saints had an unsatisfactory beginning to this season, including a mini-crisis in September where they suffered four consecutive losses. However, following this difficult period, they have performed exceptionally well, propelling them to 4th place. Currently, with 45 points, they are just seven points shy of the coveted 2nd place.

Swansea City is in their sixth straight season in the Championship following their relegation from England’s top-flight division in the 2017/18 season. Despite a strong run towards the end of the last season, they fell short of the Playoff by three points. Currently, they’re struggling in this season, sitting 16th with 28 points after 23 rounds. Consequently, coach Michael Duff was dismissed, and his assistant, Alan Sheehan took the helm on December 4. Under Sheehan, Swansea City has seen a marginal increase in their point-per-match average compared to Duff’s tenure. However, this is based on just four games, so it’s too early to consider it a significant improvement.

Southampton vs Swansea pick: Southampton to win and cover the -1 AH spread

Southampton is performing outstandingly, and based on the past ten games alone, they are the best team in the league, surpassing Leicester City by two points and Leeds United by one point. If not for their poor season start, Southampton would likely be nearer to the direct promotion spots. Nevertheless, they are on the right path. It wouldn’t be too shocking if they soon overtake Ipswich, who appear to be losing momentum.

Currently, Southampton is enjoying a 15-match unbeaten streak in the Championship, boasting a win rate of 67% throughout this period. The Saints have triumphed in seven out of 11 home games in the Championship. Their performance only improves as the season advances, demonstrated by their current five-match winning streak. Notably, they have maintained a clean sheet in their most recent three matches.

Swansea City’s recent performances have been varied, with only two victories in their last nine matches. Their record against top league teams such as Leicester, Ipswich, Leeds, and West Brom is even less impressive, having suffered losses in all four matches. Furthermore, they conceded three goals in each of these games.

Given Southampton’s impressive form and Swansea’s weak performance against top-tier Championship teams, we anticipate a solid victory for the Saints at St. Mary’s Stadium.