Peterborough United face Oxford United in the second leg of the League One playoff semi-finals, seeking to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg at the Kassam Stadium.
Here's a detailed preview and prediction for the crucial clash at Weston Homes Stadium.
Match Preview
Peterborough United suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat in the first leg, but will be buoyed by their prolific home form this season.
The Posh have netted 55 goals in 23 home games this season, finishing as the league’s highest scorers.
Recent victories at Weston Homes Stadium include a 3-0 win over Port Vale and a 4-1 thrashing of Fleetwood Town. They also drew 3-3 against Bolton Wanderers in an exhilarating encounter.
Oxford United came into the legs with momentum after their victory over Exeter City, which helped them sneak into the playoffs. Elliott Moore’s decisive header from a Cameron Brannagan corner earned them the advantage ahead of this second leg.
Key Stats
Peterborough Home Form: Undefeated in their last three home matches, scoring 10 goals.
Oxford Away Form: Four-game unbeaten streak (W3, D1) on the road.
Peterborough's Attack: League’s highest scorers, with 55 goals in 23 home games.
Oxford's Defence: Unbeaten in all 11 away games where they scored first (W9, D2).
Team News
Peterborough United
Unavailable: Jacob Wakeling and Jeando Fuchs remain sidelined due to injury.
Returning: Kwame Poku could start after making a half-time substitute appearance in the first leg.
In Form Player: Malik Mothersille, with three goals in his last two home games, is expected to lead the line.
Probable Lineup: Steer; Katongo, Knight, Edwards, Burrows; Kyprianou, Collins; Poku, Randall, Mason-Clark; Mothersille.
Oxford United
Injury Update: Manager Des Buckingham reported no fresh injury concerns ahead of the tie.
In-Form Players: Mark Harris will spearhead the attack, having scored three goals in the last two away games.
Probable Lineup: Cumming; Stevens, Moore, Brown, Bennett; Dale, Rodrigues, Brannagan, Goodrham, Murphy; Harris.
Prediction
Peterborough United's formidable home attack will certainly test Oxford United, but the U's resilient defence and unbeaten away streak suggest that they will hold on for a draw and secure a place in the playoff final.
Our Prediction: Peterborough United 2-2 Oxford United (Oxford United advance on aggregate)
FAQ
When and where is the match between Peterborough United and Oxford United taking place? The match is scheduled for Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the Weston Homes Stadium, home of Peterborough United.
What was the result of the first leg between these teams? Oxford United won the first leg 1-0 at the Kassam Stadium.
How many goals has Peterborough United scored at home this season? Peterborough United have scored 55 goals in 23 home games, making them the league’s highest scorers.
What is Oxford United's recent away form like? Oxford United are unbeaten in their last four away games (W3, D1), conceding no more than one goal in each of those matches.
Who are the key players to watch in this match? Peterborough United: Kwame Poku, Malik Mothersille, and Hector Kyprianou. Oxford United: Mark Harris, Cameron Brannagan, and Elliott Moore.
What injuries or absences will impact this match? Peterborough United: Jacob Wakeling and Jeando Fuchs are unavailable due to injury. Oxford United: No new injuries reported; the squad is largely fit.
What is the predicted score for the second leg? Peterborough United 2-2 Oxford United (Oxford United advance on aggregate)
How can Peterborough United overcome the first-leg deficit? Peterborough will rely on their attacking prowess and home advantage, aiming to capitalise on their ability to score freely at the Weston Homes Stadium this season.