Predictions for the Championship game Stoke City vs. Preston North End

Stoke City FC - Preston North End FC betting tip & best odds | 26.12.2025

Stoke City will host Preston North End on December 26, 2025, at the bet365 Stadium in a Championship clash that promises to be competitive. With both teams looking to improve their standings as the season approaches its halfway mark, this match presents a vital opportunity for points. Stoke City currently sits in 6th place with 30 points, while Preston North End is closely trailing in 5th with 31 points. The kickoff is scheduled for 16:00 local time.

These are our betting predictions

1. **Home Win Stoke City** - Tip 1: With Stoke City playing at home and needing a response after a string of disappointing results, this match presents a great opportunity for them to secure a win. The odds for a home victory are currently at 2.16 at 1win, making this a favorable betting tip for today.

2. Both Teams to Not Score - Tip No: Given both teams' recent performances, particularly Stoke's struggles in front of goal, it may be wise to wager on both teams not scoring in this match. The odds for this market stand at 1.86 at 1win, providing good value for those looking for a less risky option.

Best Betting Odds for the Match

The odds for this matchup indicate that Stoke City might have the edge playing at home. The best odds for a home win is currently at 2.16 with 1win. For those considering a draw, you can find odds of 3.35 at Mozzart, while an away victory for Preston North End stands at 3.55 with Premier Bet. Given our experience with these bookmakers, we highly recommend using the best betting sites for reliable odds and a variety of betting options.

Current Form of Stoke City

Stoke City is currently in 6th position in the Championship, accumulating 30 points from 19 matches. Their record includes 9 wins, 3 draws, and 7 defeats, with a goal difference of 26:18. However, their recent form has been concerning, as they have suffered 4 defeats in their last 5 matches, with a solitary victory. Their last match saw them lose 0-1 away to Watford FC, indicating their struggles in both defense and attack. Coach Mark Robins will be looking for his side to bounce back and reclaim their form, especially on home soil where they have recorded 5 wins and 3 losses in their last 9 home games.

How is Preston North End currently doing?

Preston North End is performing well this season, sitting 5th in the Championship table with 31 points. They have managed 8 wins, 7 draws, and only 4 losses, with a goal tally of 26 scored and 20 conceded. Their last match ended in a 1-1 draw against Norwich City, showing their resilience, as they have remained unbeaten in 5 consecutive matches across all competitions, with 2 wins and 3 draws. Coach Paul Heckingbottom has instilled a solid defensive structure, which has contributed to their commendable away record of 3 wins, 4 draws, and 2 losses.

The Last Direct Duels

In their last five encounters, the teams have shown a competitive balance, with Stoke City winning once, Preston North End winning twice, and two matches ending in draws. Notably, their last two meetings in the Championship both ended in 1-1 draws, indicating a closely contested rivalry. This history could play a psychological role as both teams approach this fixture.

Conclusion

As both teams prepare for this crucial encounter, Stoke City will be under pressure to deliver a strong performance at home. Given their need to recover from recent losses and Preston's solid form, this match could go either way. However, the home advantage and the urgency for points may tip the scales in favor of Stoke City, leading to our prediction of a home win.

If you are looking for more insights and predictions, don’t forget to check our betting tips for tomorrow, which provide additional sports betting tips for upcoming matches.