Southampton FC host Middlesbrough FC at St Mary’s Stadium on Tuesday night with a place in the Championship playoff final at stake.

Following a 0-0 draw at the Riverside, everything remains open heading into the decisive second leg.

Middlesbrough dominated the first meeting

Middlesbrough FC were comfortably the better side in the opening match.

Boro registered 21 shots while Southampton failed to record a single effort on target.

Saints fortunate to remain level

Many observers believe Middlesbrough should have won the first leg by multiple goals given their dominance throughout the match.

Spying controversy adds extra tension

A member of Southampton’s coaching staff was reportedly caught spying on Middlesbrough training ahead of the first leg.

Kim Hellberg used controversy as motivation

Kim Hellberg publicly labelled Southampton “cheats” before the opening match, adding further intensity to the tie.

Southampton’s record against top-six sides is worrying

Tonda Eckert has seen his side win just one of 11 matches against top-six opposition this season.

Team news

Jack Stephens and Mads Roerslev remain unavailable through injury.

Middlesbrough’s away form remains excellent

Middlesbrough FC have lost only one of their last 10 away Championship matches.

Injury concerns continue

Alfie Jones, Darragh Lenihan, Alex Bangura and Hayden Hackney are all expected to miss the match.

Southampton vs Middlesbrough key stats

Match statistics

• Middlesbrough are unbeaten in their last five Championship matches
• Southampton have won just one of their last five games
• Under 3 goals landed in three of the last four meetings
• Middlesbrough recorded 21 shots in the first leg
• Southampton failed to register a shot on target

Betting tips and prediction

Despite Southampton’s home advantage, Middlesbrough’s recent form and dominant first-leg display make the visitors an appealing option.

Hot tip

• Middlesbrough to win