Watford - Stoke

Watford aim to sustain the confidence gained from their recent victory over Preston North End as they return to Vicarage Road Stadium on 12 September 2026. This Championship matchday 7 encounter sees the hosts looking to stabilize their league campaign after a challenging run that included a heavy EFL Cup defeat to Peterborough United. With Edoardo Bove sidelined due to injury, the expected XI led by Mamadou Doumbia and Amin Nabizada will need to find consistency against a visiting side that has shown flashes of attacking flair.

Stoke City arrive following a productive spell, having secured back-to-back league wins against Charlton Athletic and Norwich City before a draw with Cardiff City. Despite significant absences including Bosun Lawal and Sam Gallagher, the visitors will look to George Hirst to spearhead their offensive efforts. History remains tight between these two sides, with Watford having edged a narrow 1-0 victory in their last meeting at this venue in December 2025.