Middlesbrough Loses 2-1 to Sheffield Wednesday, Playoff Hopes Diminish

Sheffield Wednesday came from behind to defeat Middlesbrough 2-1, ending a long winless home streak and significantly damaging Boro's Championship play-off hopes. Middlesbrough took an early lead through Finn Azaz and had a chance to double their advantage, but Tommy Conway's penalty was saved by Pierce Charles, which shifted the momentum. Wednesday capitalized in the second half, with Josh Windass equalizing and Anthony Musaba scoring a late winner. The loss was particularly costly for Middlesbrough as rivals Coventry City and Bristol City also lost, meaning Boro missed a major opportunity to move into the top six with just two games left. Both managers noted the penalty save as a turning point, with Michael Carrick lamenting his side's lack of control and Danny Rohl praising his team's energy and tactical response. The result marked Wednesday's first home win since New Year's Day and a crucial response after recent criticism.