The big picture

Oxford United come in 3rd on the ladder with 26 points; Barnsley are 23rd on 9. Oxford United have the higher position to protect.

Form

Oxford United have won two of their last five and most recently lost to Millwall 0–2.

Barnsley have won zero of their last five and most recently lost to West Bromwich Albion 0–4.

Barnsley have lost their last five.

Head to head

We have no previous meeting between these two on record, so this one is a genuine first look.

Players to watch

For Oxford United, watch Will Lankshear (0.3 goals a game, 2 assists in 2025-26) and Cameron Brannagan (0.2 goals a game, 3 assists in 2025-26).

For Barnsley, watch Carlton Morris (0.3 goals a game, 3 assists in 2021-22) and Cauley Woodrow (0.1 goals a game, 1 assist in 2021-22).

At The Kassam Stadium

Oxford United have won 7 of their last 20 at The Kassam Stadium.

What the numbers say

On form, ladder, Oxford United go in as clear favourites.