Watford vs Reading Predictions

Watford vs Reading predictions for this friendly clash. Watford will play Reading in a closed-doors friendly at Watford Training Ground on Saturday, preparing for EFL campaigns. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.

Club Friendlies | Jul 6, 2024 at 11am UK at Watford training ground

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Watford vs Reading Predictions

Can Watford’s Stability Under Cleverley Outclass Reading in Pre-Season?

Watford and Reading are set to face off in a behind-closed-doors friendly at The Watford Football Club Training Ground on Saturday, marking the first pre-season game for both clubs. As they prepare for their respective EFL campaigns, this match offers a glimpse into their readiness and potential improvements from last season’s performances.

Match Preview

Watford are aiming for a promotion to the Premier League after finishing 15th in the Championship last season. With Tom Cleverley now appointed as the permanent manager, there is optimism that he can build on his interim success. Cleverley took over from Valerien Ismael in March and managed to stabilise the team, achieving five clean sheets and arresting a run of poor form that saw Watford lose six out of eight matches before his appointment.

On the other hand, Reading, under the management of Ruben Selles, finished 17th in League One after being relegated from the Championship. Despite scoring 68 goals, their defence conceded 70 times, highlighting a significant area of concern. Reading’s season was further complicated by a six-point deduction due to financial issues, which added to their struggles on the pitch.

Team News and Line-ups

Watford’s Expected Line-Up:

Bond; Porteous, Hoedt, Pollock; Grieves, Kone, Kayembe, Baah; Massiah-Edwards, Doumbia, Bayo

Watford will be eager to give minutes to new signings Mamadou Doumbia and Jonathan Bond. Doumbia joined on a six-year contract, while Bond, a former Watford player, has returned on a one-year deal. The Hornets will also look to integrate returning loanees Samuel Kalu and Imran Louza.

Reading’s Expected Line-Up:

Pereira; Abrefa, Mbengue, Bindon, Dorsett; Elliott, Savage; Azeez, Knibbs, Ehibhatiomhan; Wareham

Reading have not made any new signings yet, and their squad remains largely unchanged from last season. With several players leaving the club, including Paul Mukairu, Clinton Mola, and Matty Carson, Reading will rely on their existing roster to step up in this pre-season match.

Key Areas and Player Duels

The midfield battle will be crucial, with Watford’s Ismael Kone and Edo Kayembe likely to face off against Reading’s Elliott and Savage. Watford’s midfielders are expected to control the tempo and distribution, while Reading’s duo will need to disrupt Watford’s rhythm and create chances for their forwards.

In attack, Watford’s new signing Mamadou Doumbia will be one to watch. His integration into the team and chemistry with fellow attackers like Massiah-Edwards and Bayo will be key. For Reading, Ehibhatiomhan’s ability to link up with Azeez and Knibbs will be vital in penetrating Watford’s defence.

Gameplay Expectations

Watford are expected to adopt a possession-based game, leveraging their superior passing accuracy (81.4%) and ball control. Their strategy will involve quick transitions and exploiting the flanks, with players like Kwadwo Baah and new signing Doumbia providing width and pace. Reading, meanwhile, will likely focus on counter-attacks and set-pieces, given their tendency to play a more direct style.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Watford:

Strengths:

• Strong defensive organisation under Cleverley, evidenced by five clean sheets in his tenure.
• Solid ball possession and passing accuracy, which help control matches.
• Versatile attacking options with the integration of new and returning players.

Weaknesses:

• Potential instability if the season starts poorly, given Watford’s history of frequent managerial changes.
• Inconsistencies in converting possession into goals, as seen in their average of 1.3 goals per game last season.

Reading:

Strengths:

• Decent goal-scoring record with 68 goals last season.
• Resilience in face of adversity, particularly with the points deduction.
• A balanced approach in midfield with players capable of both defensive and offensive duties.

Weaknesses:

• Defensive fragility, having conceded 70 goals in the previous season.
• Lack of new signings to strengthen the squad and address key areas of concern.
• Uncertainty around club ownership and future investments.

Critique of Reading’s Approach

Reading’s struggles last season highlighted a significant defensive weakness. Conceding 70 goals is a glaring issue that Ruben Selles must address. The club’s failure to make any new signings this transfer window raises questions about their preparedness for the new season. Without strengthening their defence, Reading are likely to face similar challenges. Selles’s tactical approach needs to evolve to ensure better defensive solidity and prevent another season of underperformance.

Predictions

Best Bet: Watford -1 to Win

Given Watford’s stronger squad and recent stability under Cleverley, they are favourites to win this friendly. Watford’s defensive improvements and the addition of new players like Doumbia and Bond provide them with a solid foundation. Reading’s defensive vulnerabilities and lack of new signings make it difficult for them to challenge Watford effectively. Watford’s superior ball control and passing game will likely dominate the match.

Correct Score Prediction: Watford 2-0 Reading

Considering Watford’s defensive solidity and Reading’s struggles at the back, a 2-0 victory for Watford seems plausible. Watford’s ability to control possession and create chances will see them breach Reading’s defence, while their own backline, bolstered by Cleverley’s tactics, should be able to keep Reading at bay. The prediction aligns with Watford’s overall strength and Reading’s current weaknesses.

Goalscorer Prediction: Mamadou Doumbia to Score

Mamadou Doumbia, Watford’s new signing, is likely to make an immediate impact. His attacking prowess and ability to find space in the final third make him a prime candidate to score. Given Reading’s defensive frailties, Doumbia’s debut could be marked with a goal. His integration into the squad and chemistry with other attackers will be crucial in breaking down Reading’s defence.

Team to Score First: Watford

Watford’s aggressive start and superior attacking quality position them well to score the opening goal. Cleverley’s strategy often involves quick, early attacks to unsettle the opposition. Reading’s defensive inconsistencies make them vulnerable to early pressure. With players like Doumbia and Bayo leading the charge, Watford are likely to score first and set the tone for the match.

Innovative Prediction: Total Corners Over 9.5

Both teams’ attacking intents suggest a high number of corners. Watford averaged 5.1 corners per game last season, while Reading managed 5 per game. The combined average supports the prediction of over 9.5 corners in the match. With Watford’s emphasis on wing play and Reading’s counter-attacking strategy, both teams will generate multiple corner situations.

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