The upcoming Championship clash at Deepdale will see Preston North End host Stoke City in a fixture that could have significant implications for both sides’ mid-table ambitions. With just four points separating them in the standings, this encounter promises to be a tense battle between two teams seeking consistency as the season enters its final stretch. Preston are currently 17th, while Stoke sit 13th, and both will be eager to secure a result that strengthens their position away from the relegation zone.

Preston North End’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Preston North End have endured a difficult run of results in recent weeks. Their latest outing ended in a 2-0 defeat away to Norwich City on March 14, extending their winless streak to seven matches. Over their last five games, the Lilywhites have recorded 0 wins, 1 draw, and 4 defeats, averaging just 0.4 goals scored per match while conceding 2.2. This lack of attacking efficiency has been a major concern, as they have only found the net once in their last four fixtures.

Across the Championship season, Preston’s record stands at 12 wins, 13 draws, and 13 losses, with an average of 1.1 goals scored and 1.3 conceded per game. Their home form has been inconsistent, and they will need to rediscover their defensive discipline if they are to halt their current slide. Historically, Preston have struggled in this fixture, managing just one win in their last ten meetings with Stoke, and none in the last four.

• Ranking: 17th in the Championship


• Last 5 matches: 0W – 1D – 4L


• Average goals scored: 1.1 per match


• Average goals conceded: 1.3 per match


• Last head-to-head: 0-0 on December 26, 2025

Stoke City’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Stoke City approach this match in slightly better shape, having collected four points from their last two games. They followed up a goalless draw with Ipswich by defeating Watford 3-1 on March 14, a result that lifted morale and provided a much-needed boost. Despite this, their away form remains a concern, as they have lost each of their last three matches on the road.

Over their last five fixtures, the Potters have registered 2 wins, 1 draw, and 2 defeats, averaging 1.8 goals scored and 1.8 conceded per game. Their overall Championship record stands at 14 wins, 9 draws, and 15 losses, with an average of 1.2 goals scored and 1.1 conceded per match. One notable trend is their defensive solidity in the first half — they have not lost at half time in 18 of their last 20 matches, and at least one team has failed to score before the break in 38 of their last 40 games.

• Ranking: 13th in the Championship


• Last 5 matches: 2W – 1D – 2L


• Average goals scored: 1.2 per match


• Average goals conceded: 1.1 per match


• Haven’t lost at half time in 18 of their last 20 matches

Preston North End vs Stoke City Analysis

This fixture brings together two sides whose seasons have been marked by inconsistency and low-scoring encounters. Both teams have struggled to maintain attacking rhythm, and their recent head-to-head record reflects that — in the last ten meetings, six have ended with at least one team failing to score. The most recent clash, a 0-0 draw in December 2025, was another example of their tendency to cancel each other out.

Preston’s main challenge will be to rediscover their scoring touch, as their recent offensive output has been minimal. Stoke, meanwhile, will aim to carry their momentum from the Watford win into this away fixture, though their poor record on the road remains a concern. Given the defensive patterns of both sides and their recent form, this match could once again be decided by fine margins, with few clear chances expected.

Both teams will likely prioritize defensive organization over attacking risk, especially considering their proximity in the table and the importance of avoiding defeat. A low-scoring affair seems the most probable outcome, with the first goal — if it comes — potentially decisive.

BetMines Prediction

Preston North End vs Stoke City prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score – No with 54% probability.