EFL PLAY-OFFS SECOND LEG: PREDICTIONS & BEST BETS 11TH – 15TH MAY 2026 

EFL betting tipster Louie Truman has given his betting predictions for all six EFL play-offs, which include Championship, League One and League Two. He’s also included betting odds and some of the best betting bonuses.

EFL CHAMPIONSHIP

MILLWALL VS HULL

The first leg finished as a goalless draw, with Millwall dominating possession with 62%. The Lions also had 15 shots compared to Hull’s six. Overall, Alex Neil’s side had better chances compared to Hull, and they’ll look to build on the home advantage as they approach the second leg. Millwall have a great record at the Den, winning three of their last five home matches.

Prior to the 0-0 draw against Millwall, Hull scored six goals in the four matches prior to the goalless draw. Oli McBurnie is the club's top goal scorer; McBurnie has been crucial for Hull this season because he offers a goal threat along with his hold-up play, aerial ability and physical presence. He’s also delivered in key moments, with his experience playing a key role in Hull’s push for promotion.

Betting Tip: Millwall Win – 7/10 - BetMGM

SOUTHAMPTON VS MIDDLESBROUGH

The other play-off semi-final sees Southampton host Middlesbrough. The first leg also ended as a goalless draw, with Southampton failing to have a shot on target. However, Tonda Eckert’s side is currently on an excellent spell of form; the last time they lost in the league was in January, which came against Hull. Finn Azaz has played a crucial role in attack, with 19 goal contributions this season in the league. Azaz also scored against Manchester City in the FA Cup.

Middlesbrough were the better team in the first leg; Boro had 64% possession, and they had five shots on target. Kim Hellberg’s side also had 51 touches in the opposition box compared to Southampton’s ten. Over the course of the campaign, Middlesbrough produced some impressive runs of form and even enjoyed time at the top of the table. However, a lack of consistency in results led to Boro slipping down to fifth place to secure a place in the play-offs.

Betting Tip: Finn Azaz to Score – 13/5 - Betfred

EFL LEAGUE ONE

STOCKPORT VS STEVENAGE

Stockport finished just one place outside the play-off places, and they managed to overcome Stevenage in the first leg with a 1-0 win at the Lamex Stadium; Ben Osborn found the back of the net in the 94th minute. Dave Challinor’s side will aim to build on their 1-0 lead as they have the home advantage in the second leg.

Stevenage booked their spot in the play-offs in dramatic fashion, with Dan Sweeney netting a stoppage-time winner against Wigan Athletic to seal a top-six finish on the final day. Stevenage was unlucky not to get anything out of the first leg, conceding in the 94th minute. Alex Revell’s side have struggled for away form this season, winning just seven matches on the road. Despite their away record, Boro has a good record against Stockport, winning two of their last three meetings.

Betting Tip: Stockport to Win the First Half – 8/5 - Star Sports

BRADFORD VS BOLTON

Having achieved promotion from League Two last season, Bradford continued their momentum with a superb campaign, finishing fourth. Still, the Bantams head into this one with just a single win in their last five matches. Graham Alexander’s side lost the first leg with a 1-0 away loss at the Toughsheet Community Stadium. However, Bradford comes into the second leg with the home crowd behind them. During the current campaign, Bradford has a 65%-win rate at the Valley Parade Stadium.

Bolton managed to secure a 1-0 lead in the first leg; Amario Cozier-Duberry scored his eighth goal of the season. Mason Burstow is the club’s top goal scorer with 12 goals; Mason Burstow has impressed for Wanderers this season due to his all-round development as a forward, combining physicality and an improved end product. His improved finishing and decision-making in the final third have also made him one of the club’s standout players.

Betting Tip: Over 2.5 Goals – 13/20 - BetMGM

EFL LEAGUE TWO

SALFORD VS GRIMSBY

Salford secured a 2-1 away win in the first leg; Kallum Cesay and Adebola Oluwo were the goal scorers. Despite having just seven shots, the Ammies took their chances well. Salford City’s main strengths this season have been their defensive organisation, strong work rate and ability to manage tight games well. They’ve been difficult to break down, especially at home.

Despite Reece Staunton scoring an excellent volley within the first minute. The Mariners still fell to Salford in a 2-1 home loss. However, Grimsby have a great record against Salford, winning the two meetings prior to the loss in the first leg. During the two wins, David Artell’s side found the back of the net five times.

Betting Tip: Both Teams to Score – 8/11 - Betfred

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NOTTS COUNTY VS CHESTERFIELD

Strong attacking displays kept Notts County in the promotion race for much of the season, though defensive errors and inconsistent form resulted in a play-off finish. Notts County secured a 1-0 home win in the first leg, with Jayden Luker finding the back of the net. The Magpies have done well to come into the second leg, and Alassana Jatta is the club’s top goal scorer with 15 goals to his name.

Despite the loss in the first leg, Chesterfield won three of their last four prior to the loss. In recent meetings, the Spireites have won three of their last four meetings against County. Two of these wins came at Meadow Lane.

Betting Tip: Draw – 11/5 - Star Sports