Middlesbrough and Southampton are preparing to face off in the Championship play-off semi-finals, with both clubs vying for a place in the Premier League. Here is everything you need to know about the first leg, including kick-off time, TV coverage, live stream options, and team news.
Kick-Off Time and Venue
The first leg is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, with a 12:30 PM BST kick-off at the Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough. The home crowd is expected to fill the stadium, aiming to give Boro an advantage ahead of the second leg on Tuesday evening.
How to Watch on TV
In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football. Coverage begins at 12:00 PM BST, providing half an hour of pre-match analysis. Subscribers can access the game through their existing Sky Sports package.
Live Stream Options
Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match via the Sky Go app on mobile devices, tablets, and laptops. Alternatively, non-subscribers can purchase a one-off pass through the NOW app or website to watch the game without a long-term contract.
International Viewing
Fans in the United States can watch live on CBS Sports Network, with coverage starting at 7:30 AM ET. Viewers will need an early start to catch all the action.
Radio Coverage
Local radio commentary will be available on BBC Radio Tees (North East) and BBC Radio Solent (south coast). National updates will be provided on talkSPORT 2. Club-specific commentary can also be accessed via the official Middlesbrough and Southampton subscription services online.
Team News
Southampton
The Saints have been boosted by the return of Flynn Downes, who is available after serving a suspension. Manager Tonda Eckert confirmed that Kuryu Matsuki has returned to training and could feature, while Jack Stephens may also be available after a recent absence.
Middlesbrough
Boro are monitoring several minor knocks following the end of the regular season but are expected to field a strong starting XI. Hayden Hackney has returned to training after missing the last eight games and could be named on the bench, according to manager Kim Hellberg.
Head-to-Head Record
In their most recent meeting in January 2026, Middlesbrough secured a dominant 4-0 victory. However, play-off fixtures often defy previous form, and Southampton will be eager to overturn that result on the big stage.
