Thanks to a quick goal, City was able to impose a 1-0 win on Queens Park Rangers in London to stay within the playoffs. Once again, the excellent defensive function was the great weapon of the "robins," who managed to "quench" the pressure of the Londoners and not threaten them substantially.

The introduction of 4-1-4-1 by Lee Johnson is justified. On the one hand, City has been able to keep its defense clear for 360 minutes, on the other hand, has been impressive in counterattacks, with most of their goals coming during this winning streak.

The host was reinforced by the arrival of both Benkovic (Leicester central defender) and Henriksen (Hull central midfield) but lacked consistency in the Aston Gate. If City improves its home performances then, they will be for sure in the playoff zone.

In the last five games at home, they have only two victories, while they have been defeated three times. Kalas, Watkins and Afobe are out.

Birmingham succeded an epic qualification in the penalty shoot-out midweek to Coventry in the Cup, in a thriller that ended 2-2 in 120 minutes. The "Blue" were found to lose both regular and extra half-time, but had "answers" and eventually prevailed in the Penalty shoot out.

Once more Birmingham played great offensively. Besides, is again available the newcomer Hogan, whose collaboration with Jutkevic has been harmonious since their first game. However, Birmingham is called upon to manage its defensive volatility and fatigue.

Birmingham has many injury concerns. McEachran injured in the FA Cup and he will be out, alongside with Maghoma. Their absence is important, as both they are excellent midfielders.

Besides, there are two more absences for the guests, again in midfielders. The Swedish Mrabti is out and Crowley. Clotet has to find the best solutions for his team.

The two teams have faced each other 29 times. Bristol City has 5 wins, while Birmingham has won 16 times, and 8 matches ended in a draw.

In the 1st round, Birmingham -  Bristol City: 1-1, on 10/08/2019.

Let's take a look at main and special odds markets offered at bet365 website :

• Full Time Result (1X2) : 2.25 – 3.40 – 3.20
• Under/Over 2.5 Goals : 1.90 (Over) – 1.90 (Under)
• Draw No Bet: 1.57 (Bristol City) – 2.25 (Birmingham)
• Both Teams to Score: 1.66(Yes) –  2.10 (No)
• Halftime Result (1X2): 2.87 – 2.20– 3.60

*bet365 odds as offered at  07/02, 15:00CET (subject to change without prior notice) | 18+, T&Cs Apply, BeGambleAware.org

The Austrian Weimman is the first scorer of his team having 9 goals in 30 games. While Afobe is out he will have to do more in this game.

Jutkewicz has scored 10 goals in 30 matches for Birmingham and he is the main threat for his opponents.