Bristol City and Watford have established a fierce rivalry in English football, with 48 matches played between them across various competitions. Their head-to-head record shows a closely contested battle, with Bristol City winning 17 matches, Watford claiming 14 victories, and 17 games ending in draws.
Historical head-to-head statistics
The rivalry between these two clubs spans several decades of English football. In recent encounters, Bristol City has won 11 out of 36 matches, while Watford has secured 14 victories.
Home advantage has proven significant in this fixture. Bristol City boasts a strong home record, winning 13 out of 24 matches played at Ashton Gate. Watford, meanwhile, tends to perform better when hosting Bristol City at Vicarage Road.
Their matches typically produce entertaining football, with an average of 2.77 goals per game – indicating fans can usually expect action-packed encounters when these teams meet.
Recent memorable encounters
The history between these clubs features several notable matches. One of the most lopsided results came in February 2021, when Watford demolished Bristol City 6-0 in a Championship fixture.
Bristol City exacted some revenge in December 2023 with an emphatic 4-1 victory over the Hornets. The most recent clash between these sides occurred on April 5, 2025, with Bristol City edging a tight contest 2-1.
These fluctuating results demonstrate the unpredictable nature of this fixture, with both teams capable of dominant performances against each other.
Competition variety
Bristol City and Watford have faced off in multiple competitions throughout their history:
- Championship (formerly Division One/Two) matches form the bulk of their encounters
- FA Cup ties have seen Watford hold a slight edge with two victories
- League Cup fixtures have added another dimension to their rivalry
- Occasional playoff encounters have raised the stakes even further
This variety of competitive contexts has helped develop the rivalry beyond mere league positioning, creating a rich history between the clubs.
Current form and outlook
Both teams have experienced fluctuating fortunes in recent seasons within the English football pyramid. Watford has occasionally enjoyed periods of Premier League football, while Bristol City has primarily competed in the Championship.
The Robins’ recent victories over Watford suggest a potential shift in the dynamic between these teams. Bristol City’s 2-1 win in April 2025 continues their improved record against the Hornets.
As both clubs continue to battle for promotion and stability, their encounters remain significant fixtures in the Championship calendar, The competitive balance between them ensures that future Bristol City vs Watford matches will continue to be eagerly anticipated by supporters of both clubs.