The race for automatic promotion from the EFL Championship is entering a decisive stage, and Middlesbrough F.C. could benefit from a hectic fixture schedule facing promotion rivals Ipswich Town F.C..

With just weeks remaining in the season, every result could prove crucial in determining which two teams secure automatic promotion to the Premier League. Middlesbrough currently sit in a strong position heading into their upcoming clash with Blackburn Rovers F.C. at Ewood Park, knowing a victory would keep them in second place heading into the international break.

At present, Middlesbrough hold a narrow two-point advantage over both Ipswich and Millwall F.C., with the latter two sides also facing each other in a key match at Portman Road. While nothing will be decided immediately, the coming month could ultimately shape the promotion picture.

Ipswich facing demanding run of fixtures

April is set to be particularly demanding for Ipswich and their manager Kieran McKenna. Due to postponed fixtures and FA Cup scheduling changes, Ipswich will be forced to play a congested series of matches across the month.

The Tractor Boys will resume league action on Easter Monday against Birmingham City F.C., before facing a sequence of tough fixtures including trips to Norwich City F.C., Portsmouth F.C. and Southampton F.C..

One particularly challenging stretch will see Ipswich play seven games in just 21 days leading up to the final match of the season. During that period they will also host Middlesbrough in what could prove to be one of the defining matches in the promotion battle.

Opportunity for Middlesbrough

In contrast, Middlesbrough will benefit from a less congested schedule, potentially giving manager Kim Hellberg more time to prepare his squad between games.

The key clash between the two promotion rivals is currently scheduled for April 18 at Portman Road. However, Ipswich will have played just days earlier away to Portsmouth, which could leave them fatigued heading into that crucial encounter.

Should Middlesbrough take advantage of that moment, it could strengthen their push for automatic promotion.

Promotion race still wide open

Despite Middlesbrough’s current advantage, the promotion race remains extremely tight. Coventry City F.C. still maintain a significant lead at the top of the table and will be hoping to avoid getting dragged into late-season drama.

Meanwhile, the final day of the campaign could still deliver major twists. Middlesbrough are scheduled to travel to Wrexham A.F.C., while Ipswich host Queens Park Rangers F.C. in what could be a decisive match for promotion.

For now, however, Middlesbrough will simply be hoping that Ipswich’s demanding April schedule proves difficult to navigate — potentially opening the door for Boro to take a crucial step towards a return to the Premier League.