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Model output updated: 1 Aug 2025, 10:32
Final result: 2–3 · Prediction did not match the highest-probability outcome.
Blackpool will kick off their 2025-26 League One campaign by hosting Stevenage at Bloomfield Road. The Tangerines finished in ninth place last season, narrowly missing the playoffs, while Stevenage ended in 14th. [4] Historically, Blackpool has had the upper hand in this fixture, winning four of the six previous encounters and remaining unbeaten at home against the Boro. [5, 9] Under the management of Steve Bruce, Blackpool had an unbeaten pre-season and will be looking to start their push for a top-six finish. [4] Stevenage, managed by Alex Revell, had a mixed pre-season and have never won at Bloomfield Road, a statistic they will be eager to change. [4, 5] The home advantage and historical dominance give Blackpool a clear edge heading into this opening day fixture.
Blackpool: Blackpool enters the season with a significant injury list. CJ Hamilton, Albie Morgan, Tom Bloxham, Danny Imray, and James Husband are all ruled out. [4, 16] This could force manager Steve Bruce to opt for a 3-5-2 formation. [19] The club has been active in the transfer market, bringing in several new faces including goalkeepers Bailey Peacock-Farrell and Franco Ravizzoli, defenders Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe, and midfielders Jordan Brown and George Honeyman. [4, 7] Ashley Fletcher, who was the only Blackpool player to reach double figures in League One last season, will be a key figure in attack. [4]
Stevenage: Stevenage's main injury concern is Jake Young, who will face a late fitness test after picking up a knock in a friendly. [4] Manager Alex Revell has also been busy in the transfer market, with eight new additions to the squad, including Jordan Houghton, Bez Lubala, and goalkeeper Filip Marschall from Aston Villa. [4] Jamie Reid is expected to lead the line for the visitors. [4] New signing Chem Campbell will be a player to watch in the attack. [7]
Blackpool's extensive injury list could be a significant leveller. If Stevenage can exploit the potential disruption in the home side's lineup, they could come away with a positive result, defying their poor historical record at Bloomfield Road.
Expect a competitive match to open the season. Blackpool, despite their injuries, are favourites at home and will likely control possession. Stevenage will look to be solid defensively and hit on the counter-attack. A narrow home victory is the most probable outcome, but an early-season upset is not out of the question given the circumstances.
Last updated: 01/08/2025 09:32
