There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Cardiff's last 6 games (Championship). Reading have failed to score in their last 4 matches (Championship). Reading have lost their last 4 matches (Championship). There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Reading's last 3 games (Championship). Reading have lost with a 1 goal margin in their last 3 matches (Championship).
Reading lacked a cutting edge on the opening day as they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat against Michael Appleton's Blackpool side, falling behind to a ninth-minute Callum Connolly goal. Paul Ince's men desperately need a strong start to the season if they're to avoid relegation this season and this represents a big opportunity to get their first points on the board. Defensive resilience helped Cardiff claim a shock 1-0 victory against pre-season title favourites Norwich on the opening day. The Bluebirds were reduced to 10 men in the 73rd-minute when Perry Ng was dismissed, but Steve Morison's side held out for the three points. 0:1
Paul Ince should have summer signing Sam Hutchinson available this weekend after the experienced defender missed the opening day with a knock. He could replace Tom McIntyre in the back four here. Yakou Meite struggled to make an impact through the middle last weekend and could be shifted out wide here with returning academy graduate Shane Long starting up top. Liam Moore wasn't handed a squad number in the summer and may well have played his final game for the club after handing in a transfer request midway through last season. He's currently sidelined through injury. Steve Morrison will recall centre-back Curtis Nelson into the starting XI after Perry Ng was sent off against Norwich last weekend. Summer signing Jaden Philogene-Bidace wasn't involved on the opening day and remains a doubt this time around as he continues to build up his fitness.
Cardiff City 
Cardiff City 
Reading VS Cardiff City 