Published:
Saturday 09 May 2026
Saturday 09 May 2026
Caspar Jander believes Southampton can take confidence from their first leg performance after earning a goalless draw away to Middlesbrough in the Championship play-off semi-finals.
Saints had to withstand a difficult opening period at the Riverside Stadium, but grew into the contest and created chances of their own as the match wore on.
“It was a very difficult first half. It wasn’t our plan to create it like this, but I think we came out stronger and in the end we also had some chances.
“I think this can give us confidence that even in a hard game, we don’t lose. So we’re confident to play the game at home.”
The midfielder felt the result was another example of the resilience this team has developed over recent months.
“I think it shows a lot. Over the last few months, we’ve shown that we can find different ways not to lose the game.
“Especially today, it was very important that we didn’t lose. In a big game, even when we’re not at our best, we don’t lose.”
A tactical adjustment at the break helped Saints gain greater control and play further up the pitch.
“We changed to a back five, and we attacked a little bit higher so that we didn’t stay too deep in our own half.
“I think it worked out well and the second half was a little bit faster.”
As Southampton finished the stronger of the two sides, Jander felt there was a chance they could have taken an advantage back to St Mary’s.
“To be honest, I also had the feeling that in the end we could have scored.
“With the crossbar and Sam [Edozie]’s chance, there were two big chances to maybe score, so we were a little bit unlucky.”
With the tie now poised ahead of the return leg at St Mary’s Stadium, Jander is confident the home crowd can make a significant impact.
“I think it’s a big difference. Our fans have been amazing over the last few months.
“It also shows in how we play at home – really confident, with a lot of possession. Now we focus on Tuesday and want to win there.”