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>Southampton vs Stoke City Predictions, Picks & Odds – 22/08/2026
Championship · 2Southampton vs Stoke City – Best bets of the match
Southampton vs Stoke City Preview
Southampton sit bottom of the Championship table after opening the campaign with a 2-1 defeat at Watford, a result that heaped further pressure on head coach Tonda Eckert amid the ongoing "Spygate" controversy. The Saints must regroup quickly for their first home fixture of the season at St. Mary's. Off the pitch, a £17 million bid from Benfica for captain Taylor Harwood-Bellis was rejected, with the club valuing the defender at around £30 million.
Stoke City occupy 18th position following their own opening day loss, and manager confidence will hinge on a response here. Encouragingly, Tomáš Rigo returned to the starting eleven for the Swansea match, while Lamine Cissé is expected to be available after missing out with a knock. Junior Tchamadeu and Ato Ampah have also resumed training, bolstering options. The Potters need a result on the road to avoid an early-season slide.
Southampton's home advantage at St. Mary's Stadium is the primary driver behind the home win selection at 1.62. Despite their opening day loss, the Saints scored freely in pre-season and possess a squad built for promotion. Stoke, positioned 18th, secured a win in their opener but face a considerably sterner test on the road. The hosts should respond with intent in front of their own supporters.
Backing over 2.5 goals at 1.65 looks appealing given the attacking profiles of both sides. Southampton netted eleven goals across their last five outings in all competitions, while Stoke's match against Swansea also produced goals at both ends. Neither defence inspires great confidence at this stage of the season, and an early-season fixture at St. Mary's has the ingredients for an open contest.
The both teams to score market at 1.67 merits consideration as well. Stoke welcome Lamine Cissé back into contention alongside the returning Junior Tchamadeu and Ato Ampah, strengthening their options going forward. Southampton's rearguard, meanwhile, conceded twice at Watford and may still be settling under Eckert's system. Expect Stoke to find the net, but Southampton's quality at home should ultimately prove decisive.
Trends to Know about Southampton vs Stoke City
- Southampton scored 11 goals in five matches
- Saints seek first home win this term
- Stoke conceded first in season opener
Form & Statistics: Southampton vs Stoke City
Southampton
Recent form
Season statistics (2)
Stoke City
Recent form
Season statistics (2)
Southampton vs Stoke City: Head-to-Head
Average statistics (recent meetings)
How to Watch Southampton vs Stoke City Match?
What time is Southampton vs Stoke City?
Southampton host Stoke City at St. Mary's Stadium on Friday 22 August 2026, with kickoff set for 15:00 BST.
Where is Southampton vs Stoke City being played?
This fixture takes place at St. Mary's Stadium in Southampton.
How Can I Watch Southampton vs Stoke City on TV and Live Stream?
Check local listings for Championship broadcast details in your region.