What are Stoke City's main challenges for promotion?

Stoke City's promotion hopes are challenged by inefficiency in front of goal and conceding goals from their own possession.

Why is Stoke's Championship season described as a rollercoaster?

Stoke's season is a rollercoaster due to inconsistent results, with recent defeats impacting their momentum towards promotion.

When can Stoke City realistically aim for promotion?

The article suggests that Stoke City stands on the brink of achieving promotion in 2026 if they can resolve key issues.

Home / Sports / Stoke's Rollercoaster: Promotion Hopes Hinge on Key Fixes

Stoke's Rollercoaster: Promotion Hopes Hinge on Key Fixes

30 Nov, 2025

•

Summary

Stoke faces a crucial juncture in their Championship season.
Team's promotion chances depend on scoring efficiency.
Defensive lapses from their own possession are a major concern.

Stoke's Rollercoaster: Promotion Hopes Hinge on Key Fixes

Stoke City finds itself on a challenging trajectory in the Championship, experiencing a recent dip in form with three defeats in four games. This season has been a true rollercoaster, with inconsistency plaguing most teams except Coventry. Manager Mark Robins has expressed dissatisfaction, emphasizing the need for improved performance in crucial moments that often decide tight matches, which Stoke has lost recently.

Emotional scenes unfolded post-match, fueled by unsportsmanlike conduct from some Hull players, leading to altercations and crowd disturbances. This incident highlighted the heightened emotions surrounding Stoke's current situation. The team's potential for an 'amazing 2026' promotion bid hinges on addressing two significant problems: enhancing their efficiency in scoring goals and preventing goals from developing out of their own possession in midfield.