Birmingham City begin 2026 with a daunting Championship trip to Vicarage Road, where they face a Watford side sitting comfortably in the play-off places. The Blues, managed by Chris Davies, are desperate to exorcise their demons on the road and start the new year with a vital victory.
A Dire Away Record Haunts Blues
The statistics make for grim reading for Birmingham City supporters. Their away form in the Championship throughout 2025 has been utterly miserable, yielding just two wins, two draws, and a staggering eight defeats from twelve matches. This poor record is hauntingly similar to the form that contributed to their relegation from the division in the 2023/24 season.
In stark contrast, Watford have been imperious on their own turf. The Hornets boast the second-best home record in the league and arrive in strong form, having won four of their six matches since a narrow 1-0 defeat to Birmingham at St Andrew's a month ago. This fixture is not the one Chris Davies would have chosen for his out-of-form side to try and turn their fortunes around.
New Year, New Fortune at Vicarage Road?
The match kicks off on New Year's Day, with Birmingham hoping the calendar change brings a shift in luck. Watford, managed by Javi Gracia, currently occupy sixth position in the Championship table, seven points clear of Birmingham City. The task for the visitors is monumental, given the stark contrast in both form and league standing.
Alex Dicken, our senior football writer, is reporting live from Vicarage Road. He notes that while Birmingham secured a win in the reverse fixture, replicating that success away from home is a significant challenge against a confident Watford side.
What Birmingham Need to Change
To have any chance of causing an upset, Birmingham must address their chronic issues on the road. Key areas for improvement include:
- Defensive solidity: Conceding fewer early goals to stay in the contest.
- Midfield control: Disrupting Watford's rhythm and creating chances on the break.
- Mental resilience: Shaking off the weight of their poor away record to play with freedom.
All eyes will be on Chris Davies's team selection and tactical approach as Birmingham City attempt to defy the odds and start 2026 with a statement victory against a top-six opponent.
