Rotherham United - Barnsley FC ai prediction 22.02.2025 League One

Preview for match Rotherham United vs Barnsley FC

As the League One season progresses towards its climax, the match between Rotherham United and Barnsley FC on Saturday, 22nd February 2025, at the New York Stadium promises to be a significant encounter for both teams. Set against a backdrop of high stakes, Rotherham currently occupies the 14th position in the league standings with 38 points, while Barnsley sits just above them at 10th place, boasting 43 points. With both teams looking to improve their form, this fixture could prove pivotal in their respective campaigns.

Rotherham's season has been marked by inconsistency, as they have recorded 10 wins, 8 draws, and 12 defeats so far. Their goal tally stands at 34 goals scored against 35 conceded, highlighting a fragile defensive unit that will need to tighten up if they hope to secure a more positive result against their rivals. At home, Rotherham has performed moderately well, with 8 wins, 3 draws, and 4 defeats, suggesting that the New York Stadium can be a fortress when they are at their best.

Barnsley FC, under the guidance of manager Darrell James Clarke, has had a somewhat mixed season as well, with a record of 12 wins, 7 draws, and 11 defeats. Their goal difference is marginally better at 42 scored and 41 conceded. The Tykes have shown resilience away from home, securing 8 wins, albeit with 6 defeats, indicating that while they are capable of performing in hostile environments, inconsistency remains a concern.

Both clubs will enter this match seeking redemption, having suffered defeats in their latest outings. Rotherham lost 2-1 to Reading FC, while Barnsley experienced a similar fate against Huddersfield Town, also losing 2-1 at home. The pressure is on for both teams to deliver a performance that not only secures points but enhances their confidence as they look to navigate the second half of the season.

Our betting tip for the match Rotherham United vs Barnsley FC

Our betting prediction for this encounter leans towards a home victory for Rotherham United, with the odds for this outcome currently sitting at 2.50 with 888sport. The historical performance of Rotherham at home, coupled with Barnsley's recent struggles, supports this forecast. Additionally, we anticipate that both teams will find the back of the net during the match, making "Both teams to score? Yes" a second valuable betting option.

Our tips

Total Goals

Under 3.5

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 6 of Rotherham United's last 6 matches.

There have been under 3.5 goals scored in 4 of Barnsley FC's last 4 matches.

Top odds at bet365

Total Goals

Over 2.5

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 4 of Rotherham United's last 6 matches.

There have been over 2.5 goals scored in 3 of Barnsley FC's last 4 matches.

Top odds at bet365

Total Goals

Under 4.5

There have been under 4.5 goals scored in 6 of Rotherham United's last 6 matches.

There have been under 4.5 goals scored in 4 of Barnsley FC's last 4 matches.

Top odds at bet365

AI prediction for the match Rotherham United vs Barnsley FC

In analyzing the matchup between Rotherham United and Barnsley FC, the AI forecast suggests a closely contested battle, yet leans towards a narrow victory for Rotherham. Given their home advantage and historical success in direct encounters, a scoreline of 2-1 in favor of Rotherham could well reflect the match's outcome. Factors such as both teams’ current form and goal scoring tendencies suggest that this clash will likely see action in both halves.

Rotherham United performance check

Rotherham United’s recent form has been disappointing, with the team failing to secure a win in their last five matches, resulting in four defeats and a solitary draw. Under the management of Stephen J. Evans, the club's inability to convert opportunities into points has been a critical issue. The need for a turnaround is palpable, and with home supporters behind them, Rotherham will look to capitalize on their home ground advantage to break their winless streak.

How is the current performance of Barnsley FC

Barnsley FC's recent performance mirrors their opponents', as they too are yet to record a victory in their last five fixtures, registering four defeats and one draw. Managed by Darrell James Clarke, the team has struggled to find its rhythm, particularly in the attacking third. The pressure will be on Barnsley to find a way to regain form, as they cannot afford to slip further down the table.

Last direct match

The last meeting between these two sides ended in a convincing 2-0 victory for Barnsley FC, showcasing their dominance in recent encounters. This result adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming fixture, as Rotherham will be eager to avenge that defeat.

Head-to-head last direct meetings

In the last five meetings across all competitions, Rotherham United has struggled significantly, failing to secure a win with Barnsley FC winning all five encounters. The Tykes have established a psychological edge that Rotherham will be keen to address.

Performance last 5 matches

Both teams come into this match with poor form, as Rotherham United has recorded no wins, one draw, and four defeats in their last five matches. Similarly, Barnsley FC's performance has been equally lacklustre, with no wins, one draw, and four defeats as well. This match presents an opportunity for either team to break their negative streak.

Performance

Rotherham United

Last games

Rotherham United performance of the last 6 home matches

Victories

50%

Over 2.5

66%

Barnsley FC

Last games

Barnsley FC performance of the last 4 away matches

Victories

25%

Over 2.5

100%

Last match results Rotherham United and Barnsley FC

Rotherham United suffered a 2-1 defeat against Reading FC, while Barnsley FC faced a similar fate with a 2-1 loss at home to Huddersfield Town. Both results highlight the pressing need for improvement from both sides.

Best odds and our betting tip

The best odds for Rotherham United to win are currently 2.50 with 888sport, while for Barnsley FC, the odds stand at 2.87 with Betano. Our recommendation is to explore the offerings from various betting sites to find the best odds available. We suggest that you check our bookmaker comparison to identify the best betting sites for this match.

Conclusion on the match

In conclusion, Rotherham United appears to hold a slight advantage heading into this match, bolstered by their home form and the urgency to secure a much-needed win. Conversely, Barnsley FC will need to overcome their recent struggles and assert themselves if they are to maintain a competitive position in the league. Ultimately, we predict a narrow victory for Rotherham, with a potential scoreline of 2-1.

Here are the best betting tips for tomorrow, as the action in League One continues to deliver enticing opportunities for punters.