West Brom vs Birmingham - Championship

All eyes turn to The Hawthorns on October 10, 2026 as West Brom welcome Birmingham in a Championship encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. The spectacle was once again on show ahead of Nice’s Europa League clash with AS Roma on Thursday, but what was supposed to be a display of power and pride quickly turned into a far more comical scene.

There is plenty riding on this Championship encounter for West Brom and Birmingham alike, and neither will want to leave The Hawthorns empty-handed. West Brom have held their own of late, LDLWW in their last five reflecting a steady win rate of 50%. Birmingham have struggled to string results together away from home, DWLWD over their last five with a win rate of 25%. One side has leaned on a miserly defence, the other on a free-scoring attack, and the meeting of those contrasting strengths promises an intriguing tactical subtext. If he finds a way of those three players gelling and playing together - making one of them run in beyond - then Chelsea will have a very good season.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. West Brom favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Birmingham are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Hipolito/Europa Press via Getty Images) According to Fabrizio Romano, Man United 'are not proceeding' with a move for the Brighton midfielder.

With C. Larin leading the league's scoring charts at 7 goals, the contest is unlikely to be short of attacking intent. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. Switzerland forward Amdouni bounced his far-post header into the net after goalkeeper Josh Vickers had flapped at a Lucas Pires corner.

Without the market to lean on, the contest feels genuinely open — and the outcome may come down to which side handles the occasion better. The signals point towards a stalemate, with the two sides closely matched across form and standings. A 2-2 draw is easy to envisage. Whatever the outcome, the Championship fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Fulham's Antonee Robinson could be one of those, who would likely be a cheaper alternative to Hall, who has just enjoyed a breakout season with the Magpies.