Leeds vs Middlesbrough Prediction: High-scoring encounter at Elland Road

Leeds United went on a rollercoaster ride over the opening weekend as they played out an enthralling 3-3 draw with Portsmouth at Elland Road. Now they must turn their attention to the Carabao Cup as Middlebrough come to town on Wednesday night (20:00, Sky Sports Football). 

Below you will find my Leeds vs Middlesbrough prediction, featuring betting tips, teams news and more. 

Team News

Leeds United have a decent depth to their squad this term so I would expect Daniel Farke to rotate, with promotion the sole aim this season. Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rodon, two players who are likely to feature in every Championship match if fit, could be handed a rest, while Joel Piroe or Patrick Bamford should replace Mateo Joseph. Farke may even choose to pair the duo together, while Joe Rothwell could also come into this side. 

Luke Ayling will get a warm reception as he returns to Elland Road with Middlesbrough, and he should continue at right-back for Michael Carrick. Delano Burgzorg should also start for the visitors having come off the bench at the weekend, while goalscoring sensation Emmanuel Latte Lath could be rested up top. 

Leeds vs Middlesbrough Odds

Leeds are the favourites to win this game at 4/7, while Middlesbrough are priced at 4/1 for the win. A draw can be backed at 3/1, over 2.5 goals is 4/7 and BTTS is 4/6. 

Football Odds

Over 2.5 goals @ 4/7

Even with the expected changes, this should be a belting tie. These are two of the best teams outside of the Premier League and I fully expect them to be contesting the promotion places this term. Middlesbrough secured a 1-0 win over Swansea in their opener, but Leeds’ game was nothing short of bonkers. 

They were utterly dominant for the first 15 minutes, hit the woodwork multiple times and scored from the penalty spot. But by the 92nd-minute mark, they were 3-2 down and needed forgotten man Brenden Aaronson to rescue a point. The American then missed a crucial chance to steal the win!

Basically, Leeds could play in chaos this term, and Farke could deliver more on Wednesday night. With Middlesbrough boasting a strong attack, this should contain plenty of goals.

Leeds to win and BTTS @ 15/8

I like Carrick and this Middlesbrough team a lot, so I’m expecting them to have a real go at Elland Road. Latte Lath is a superstar in my eyes and if he plays I’d back him to find the net, but given the competition, we cannot be sure of that. However, they also have Aidan Morris, Finn Azaz and Riley McGree who are all capable of finding the net, and I think they will score at least one here. 

Meanwhile, Leeds’ attack needs no introduction. The fact their second and third choice strikers this season are Piroe and Bamford tells you all you need to know. Perhaps only Burnley can match them for quality this term up top. They should have enough to squeak past Boro, in another mad contest in Yorkshire.

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