Middlesbrough - Lincoln City

Middlesbrough and Lincoln City begin their Championship campaigns when they meet at Riverside Stadium on 15 August 2026. Both sides arrive at this fixture following positive results in the EFL Cup, with Middlesbrough overcoming Wrexham 1-0 and Lincoln City securing a 2-1 away victory against Derby County in their most recent outings.

This opening day clash sets the tone for the season ahead. The expected lineups suggest attacking intent from both teams, with Middlesbrough featuring forwards like Will Lankshear and Morgan Whittaker, while Lincoln City counter with Robert Street and Ben House. The challenge now is to translate that cup form into league points as the Championship journey commences.