Birmingham City extended their impressive home record in the Championship with a determined 2-1 victory over Southampton at St Andrew's on Monday night, December 29, 2025. The clash, broadcast live on Sky Sports Football, showcased the Blues' resilience as they overcame a Southampton side eager to continue their push up the table under head coach Tonda Eckert.
From the outset, the stage was set for a high-stakes encounter. Birmingham, buoyed by their strong home form this season, eyed a crucial three points to bolster their promotion hopes. Meanwhile, Southampton arrived in the Second City with momentum, having climbed the league under Eckert’s guidance and fielding a near-unchanged lineup from their Boxing Day draw with Oxford United.
Kickoff at 8:15 pm saw both teams fielding strong sides. Southampton lined up in their now-familiar 3-4-3 formation, with Gavin Bazunu in goal despite recent criticism following a costly error against Oxford United. The defensive trio featured Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Nathan Wood, and captain Jack Stephens. Harwood-Bellis, who had impressed in recent outings, was expected to anchor the backline, while Stephens’ place came under scrutiny after a mixed performance last time out. The midfield saw Tom Fellows continuing his return to full fitness, joined by Flynn Downes, Caspar Jander, and Ryan Manning, whose defensive frailties had been a talking point among supporters. Up front, the ever-reliable Léo Scienza, Championship top scorer Adam Armstrong, and Finn Azaz were tasked with breaking down Birmingham’s defense.
Birmingham City, for their part, approached the match with confidence. Their home record had been the envy of much of the league, and the atmosphere at St Andrew’s crackled with anticipation. The Blues’ supporters, well aware of the stakes, turned out in force, hoping to witness another memorable night.
As the match unfolded, it was clear both sides understood the significance of the fixture. Southampton, despite their attacking intent, found it tough to break through Birmingham’s organized defense. The Saints’ midfield, with Downes and Jander working tirelessly, sought to control possession, but the Blues pressed high and looked dangerous on the counter.
The opening goal came as a blow to the visitors. Birmingham capitalized on a momentary lapse in the Southampton defense, with Bazunu unable to keep out a well-placed effort. The goal underscored the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the Southampton goalkeeper, whose position has been the subject of speculation as the January transfer window approaches. As one observer noted, "Bazunu's place in the squad remains under the spotlight as the January transfer window approaches. The keeper was clearly at fault for the second goal and the sooner Southampton find a quality replacement the better."
Southampton responded with urgency. Léo Scienza, who had been withdrawn early against Oxford United to protect his fitness, was lively on the left, creating chances and linking up well with Armstrong and Azaz. However, Armstrong’s recent struggles in front of goal continued; the league’s leading scorer had not found the net in three consecutive games, and Monday night proved another frustrating outing. He missed a golden opportunity to equalize, further extending his goalless streak.
Despite the setback, the Saints’ persistence paid off. A well-worked move down the right saw Tom Fellows, still regaining full match sharpness, deliver a teasing cross that found Finn Azaz at the far post. Azaz, under pressure for his starting spot from youngster Jay Robinson, justified Eckert’s faith by calmly slotting home the equalizer. The goal reignited Southampton’s hopes and momentarily quieted the home crowd.
Birmingham, however, were not to be denied. The Blues pressed forward, exploiting weaknesses on Southampton’s left flank, where Manning struggled to contain the hosts’ wide players. The pressure told, and a swift counterattack resulted in Birmingham’s second goal of the night. The home fans erupted, sensing another famous victory was within reach.
As the game entered its final stages, Eckert faced a dilemma. His reluctance to make significant changes to the starting lineup was evident, but with Southampton chasing the game, he turned to his bench. Oriol Romeu, who had replaced Downes in the previous match, was introduced in an attempt to wrest control of the midfield. Welington and Joshua Quarshie, both touted as potential starters, remained unused, as did Jay Robinson despite his recent impact off the bench.
The Saints pushed forward in search of a late equalizer, but Birmingham’s defense held firm. Harwood-Bellis ventured forward in support, showcasing the attacking prowess that had made him a standout performer in recent weeks. Yet, the Blues’ backline remained resolute, repelling wave after wave of Southampton attacks.
At the final whistle, it was Birmingham City who celebrated. The 2-1 victory not only extended their formidable home record but also dealt a blow to Southampton’s promotion ambitions. The result, published by Sky Sports shortly after the match concluded at 23:44 UK time, confirmed Birmingham’s status as one of the Championship’s toughest hosts this season.
For Southampton, the defeat prompted questions about team selection and individual performances. Bazunu’s ongoing struggles in goal, Armstrong’s dip in form, and Manning’s defensive vulnerabilities were all talking points as the Saints reflected on a missed opportunity. Nevertheless, the side remains in contention near the top of the table, with Eckert’s steady leadership offering hope for the remainder of the campaign.
Looking ahead, both teams will aim to build on the lessons learned from this hard-fought contest. Birmingham’s victory strengthens their promotion credentials, while Southampton will need to regroup quickly as the relentless Championship schedule continues. With the January transfer window on the horizon, speculation about potential changes—particularly in goal—will only intensify. Supporters of both clubs can expect plenty of drama as the season enters its decisive months.
In the end, Monday night at St Andrew’s served up all the ingredients of classic Championship football: intensity, drama, and a reminder that in this league, nothing comes easy. Birmingham City’s home fortress remains intact, while Southampton must look to rediscover their scoring touch and defensive solidity in the weeks ahead.
