This Championship match between Derby County and Blackburn Rovers is pivotal as both teams are looking to solidify their positions in the league. Derby County, playing at home, will aim to leverage their home advantage, while Blackburn Rovers will be eager to capitalize on their slightly better form this season. The average odds suggest a closely contested match, with Derby County having odds of 2.74, a draw at 3.07, and Blackburn Rovers at 2.64. This indicates a balanced probability for each outcome, with a slight edge towards Blackburn Rovers.
Derby County has shown a mixed form this season, with an average of 0.94 goals per match and a possession rate of 45.26%. Their defense has been a concern, conceding an average of 1.37 goals per game. On the other hand, Blackburn Rovers have a slightly better goal-scoring record with 1.14 goals per match and a possession rate of 46.71%. Defensively, they have been more solid, conceding only 1 goal per game on average.
In terms of head-to-head statistics, both teams have had competitive encounters in the past, with no clear dominance from either side. Tactically, Derby County may focus on a more defensive approach, given their lower goal-scoring rate, while Blackburn Rovers might adopt a more attacking strategy to exploit Derby's defensive vulnerabilities.
Key players to watch include Derby's Jerry Yates, who has scored 7 goals this season, and Blackburn's Andreas Weimann, also with 7 goals. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Derby's Ebou Adams and Blackburn's Sammie Szmodics expected to play significant roles.
Statistically, Blackburn Rovers hold a slight advantage in offensive metrics, with a higher expected goals (xG) of 1.19 compared to Derby's 1.22. Defensively, Blackburn's lower expected goals against (xGA) of 1.33 compared to Derby's 1.36 suggests a more robust defensive setup.
Overall, the match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams having the potential to secure a win. However, Blackburn Rovers' slightly better form and defensive solidity might give them the edge in this encounter.