Oxford United and Watford lock horns on matchday 42 of the Championship on Saturday. The two sides are in opposite halves of the standings.

Matt Bloomfield’s Oxford are fresh off a 2-2 draw at 10-man Portsmouth on Monday. Keshi Anderson’s ninth-minute opener broke the deadlock for Pompey, who went a man down eight minutes later when Connor Ogilvie got his marching orders.

Duly capitalising on their numerical superiority, the U’s took the lead with nine minutes left, only for Pompey to grab an equaliser three minutes from time through Andre Dozzell. Following a fourth straight winless outing, the U’s remain in the relegation zone, in 23rd, with 41 points from as many matches, winning nine.

Meanwhile, Ed Still’s Watford are also coming off a stalemate in their most recent outing, drawing 1-1 at home to Charlton Athletic. Following a goalless first period, Matt Godden gave Charlton the lead just past the hour mark before Nestor Irankundy restored parity for the Hornets 16 minutes from time.

Despite dominating possession (63%), Still’s side remain 10th in the points table, with 57 points from 41 outings, winning 14.

On that note, here’s a look at the head-to-head stats and key numbers, match prediction, and betting tips for the Oxford-Watford Championship showdown at the Kassam Stadium:

---

Oxford United vs Watford head-to-head stats and key numbers

• In 42 meetings across competitions, Watford lead Oxford 20-8, winning the reverse fixture 2-1 at home in October.
• Oxford have won once in their last nine meetings with the Hornets, losing seven.
• The U’s are unbeaten in four home games – all in the Championship – winning two.
• The Hornets have won once in eight road outings – all in the Championship – losing thrice.
• Form guide (last five games acorss competitions, most recent result first): Oxford: D-D-L-D-W; Watford: D-L-D-W-L

---

Oxford United vs Watford prediction

Both sides have had forgettable campaigns, especially Oxford, who are looking to avoid the drop after being promoted to the second tier for the first time in more than two decades last season.

In terms of head-to-head, the Hornets have a significant advantage and have dominated recent meetings. However, while the U’s have been unbeaten at home for a while, Watford have struggled on the road.

With a win pertinent for their survival hopes, expect the hosts to eke out a hard-fought victory and climb out of the relegation zone.

Prediction: Oxford United 1-0 Watford

---

Oxford United vs Watford betting tips

Tip-1: Oxford to win

Tip-2: Both sides to score: No

Tip-3: Under 1.5 goals (Three of their last five meetings have had one goal or fewer.)