Norwich City and Middlesbrough FC are set to square off in their 12th EFL Championship game of the 2024-25 season, and with both teams currently sitting on 17 points from 11 matches, this encounter could prove pivotal. Their points tally is separated only by goal difference, making this a high-stakes clash for both sides as they look to climb higher in the league standings.
Norwich City, hosting this matchup, have been on an impressive streak, remaining unbeaten in their last six league games. The Canaries are determined to continue this momentum, particularly after a slow start to the season that saw them struggling to find rhythm. Since then, under the guidance of head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup, the team has surged in form, showcasing a combination of defensive resilience and attacking prowess. Thorup’s leadership, though accompanied by an initial adjustment period due to a significant player turnover during the summer transfer window, has played a crucial role in Norwich's resurgence.
Middlesbrough, meanwhile, have shown recent signs of revival as well. Under Michael Carrick's management, the team managed to recover from a challenging start to October that included two consecutive losses. Carrick’s tactical adjustments bore fruit as Middlesbrough bounced back with two straight wins, thanks to a stable defense that has kept them in contention. Although they have faced struggles in creating and capitalizing on goal-scoring opportunities, the defensive line has stepped up to ensure they stay competitive. With Carrick marking his two-year anniversary at the helm, a win at Carrow Road would further solidify his accomplishments with the team.
Norwich, playing under Thorup’s dynamic tactics, are coming off a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Preston, a result that helped inch them closer to a potential playoff position. Norwich remains unbeaten at home this season, but Middlesbrough’s impressive record against the Canaries over recent years—where they've remained undefeated in five consecutive meetings and claimed victory in the last four—will make this a challenging test for Thorup’s side. Notably, Middlesbrough’s last visit to Carrow Road ended in a thrilling 2-1 win, with both teams scoring in added time during the second half, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure.
Middlesbrough’s standout performer this season, Borja Sainz, has continued to make a name for himself. After scoring against Watford and Hull City, he delivered once more with a spectacular hat-trick against Derby, pushing his season goal tally to nine. This scoring form has provided Middlesbrough with a much-needed boost, especially as Carrick looks for other players, such as Emmanuel Latte Lath, to regain their goal-scoring touch. Despite a stellar 18-goal season last year, Latte Lath has managed only two goals so far this season. His recent midweek goal, however, suggests he may be on the verge of rediscovering his form, and Betano odds place him at 15/8 to score at any time during this encounter.
Norwich, too, have been in fine form, with Thorup successfully steering them to only one defeat in their last ten matches. Their recent performances include two valuable away draws: a 1-1 result against Stoke City last weekend and a thrilling 2-2 draw against Preston earlier this week. Their season goal tally stands at an impressive 19, second only to Sunderland’s league-leading 21. The Canaries’ attacking efficiency and depth have been instrumental in their push up the table, and Thorup will look to sustain this momentum at home, where they remain undefeated.
Middlesbrough, currently ninth in the table, have endured a few setbacks of their own. Just last weekend, they suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss at home to Bristol City. Despite the frustration from that result, Carrick’s men managed to recover midweek with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a strong Sheffield United side, securing three vital points that pulled them level with Norwich. This victory was a significant morale boost for Middlesbrough as they aim to consolidate their position in the upper half of the standings.
With both Norwich and Middlesbrough in similar positions and motivated to advance their playoff aspirations, this fixture is shaping up to be an evenly matched contest. The game at Carrow Road promises intense competition as both teams vie for an edge in the Championship standings.