Match Preview | Wigan Athletic vs Port Vale
Wigan Athletic face a close battle with visitors Port Vale at the Brick this weekend, and it’s fair to say that this could be a close one. Wigan Athletic head into this weekend’s clash in poor form, with one win from our last five league outings and the last time out it was a narrow 1–0 defeat to Wycombe. Ryan Lowe’s side have looked sharper defensively but remain uncoordinated going forward, particularly away from home. Port Vale, meanwhile, have endured an inconsistent start to the campaign, struggling at Vale Park but proving more competitive on their travels. After a difficult run, Vale showed signs of recovery with a few positive results in late September, boosted by Devante Cole’s recent scoring form. With Wigan chasing consistency and Vale looking to build momentum, this fixture promises to be a tight and intriguing encounter.
Wigan Athletic: 17th
Wigan’s impressive start to the season feels a thing from the past, and since the 4-1 thrashing away against local rivals Bolton our creativity hasn’t been there when going forward, and many of the fanbase our currently questioning Ryan Lowe’s future. Last time out versus Wycombe, we handed them a 1 nil lead through sloppy possession football, and after Fred Onyedinma’s opener we weren’t really able to create any real opportunities, going into Saturday, we have to be on alert for Port Vale’s various attacking elements.
Port Vale: 15th
Port Vale have had a mixed start to the 2025/26 League One campaign, currently sitting around 15th in the table with 13 points from 12 matches. Their home form has been a weakness — just one win at Vale Park this season, coupled with two draws and three defeats in their six home matches. Conversely, their away form is more respectable: two wins, two draws and two losses on the road. Offensively, Port Vale have scored 11 goals in the league, and defensively conceded the same number, giving them a neutral goal difference. Their top scorer is Devante Cole, with 4 goals in all competitions so far. In cup play, Vale progressed to the third round of the EFL Cup — defeating Blackpool and then Championship side Birmingham — before being eliminated by Arsenal in a 2–0 loss. All in all, Port Vale enter the Wigan game as a side as vulnerable at home but capable of punching above their weight and causing surprises, especially away from home.
Head-to-Head Record
Wigan Wins: 13
Draws: 8
Port Vale Wins: 14
Predicted Lineup – Wigan
Injuries & Suspensions
James Carragher | (Thigh injury) – Just over a week ago Ryan Lowe stated that Carragher was close to a return, and he COULD potentially return this weekend.
Baba Adeeko | (Hamstring injury) – Expected to be out of action for at least a few weeks.
Tyrese Francois | (muscle injury) – Also stated by Lowe, that he is not far off a return. His return will really boost that squad depth.
Ryan Trevitt | (Thigh Injury) – Only recently had surgery, expected to face a lengthy spell on the side lines. Honestly a massive loss.
Score Predictions
Our human score predictions are just for fun and based on personal opinions, recent form, and match context. They are not expert advice and should never be used for things like betting or making financial decisions. For more details, please visit our disclaimer.
Curtis’ Prediction: Wigan Athletic 0-1 Port Vale
💭“It’s been 32 days since our last win at the time of writing, which is not exactly an inspiring stat. Confidence seems to have dipped within the squad, and honestly, I’m not feeling too optimistic about our chances against Port Vale.”
Charlie’s Prediction: Wigan Athletic 1-0 Port Vale
💭“Honestly, it’s unlikely but if we can snatch an early lead, via either Mullin or Murray, I’m confident we would be able to hang on defensively.”
Wigan Fan Predictions
Itzmecoby’s Prediction: Wigan Athletic 2-0 Port Vale
💭 “I think despite Port Vale’s current form being decent and Wigan’s being not so decent I do think Wigan will get the win on Saturday.”
Cody’s Prediction: Wigan Athletic 1-1 Port Vale
💭 “I see it being a very uphill battle, and If we are to score I think the scorer will be Callum Wright, he’s due a goal.”
Joe’s Prediction: Wigan Athletic 1- Port Vale
💭 “I think it’s gonna be a close game but 1-0, via the mighty Paul Mullin.”
Morgan’s Prediction: Wigan Athletic 1-2 Port Vale
💭 “I reckon it’s a game we should be able to win however with the recent performances plus the potential negativity between Lowe and his players I don’t think we are going to win again plus with port vale having players like Ben Amos and Devante Cole at their club we could potentially see them play 5 star games so I’m reckoning a 0-1 loss.”
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Predictions
Artificial Intelligence (AI) predictions use data and algorithms to forecast football match outcomes based on team form, stats, and other relevant factors. While we aim for these predictions to be as accurate as possible, they are not guaranteed and should not be relied upon to make decisions, including betting. For more information, please refer to our disclaimer.
ChatGPT: Wigan Athletic 2–1 Port Vale
💭 “Based on current form and balance of play, Wigan Athletic look the more likely winners heading into this weekend’s clash. Ryan Lowe’s side have been inconsistent overall but generally perform better at home, with stronger attacking output and a more settled structure than Port Vale. The visitors, meanwhile, have struggled badly at Vale Park and have only been sporadically effective on the road, often relying on Devante Cole for goals.”
Grok: Wigan Athletic 2-1 Port Vale
💭 “Wigan’s attacking consistency at home tips the scales, but Port Vale’s grit could force a stalemate. I predict a narrow Wigan Athletic 2-1 Port Vale win—expect goals, with Wigan breaking their drought through set-pieces or counters, while Port Vale nicks a late consolation. Both teams to score (BTTS) is highly likely given their leaky defenses. Odds might favor Wigan at ~1.90, but a draw at 3.20 isn’t out of the question. Enjoy the game!”
Gemini: Wigan Athletic 1-1 Port Vale
💭 “The most likely scoreline is a 1-1 draw, as both teams have shown a tendency towards low-scoring matches and recent head-to-head encounters have been tight. Port Vale’s defensive strength is highlighted by conceding only 11 goals in the League One season, while Wigan has also played many home games with under 2.5 goals scored.”
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