Football returns to the Select Car Leasing Stadium this weekend as Reading FC gears up to host Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in a pre-season friendly. This match, scheduled for Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 3 PM, marks a key moment in the Royals’ preparations for the upcoming Championship campaign, which begins in just two weeks.
A Glimpse into the Past Season
The 2023/24 season was a challenging one for Reading, with Rubén Sellés’ side finishing 17th in League One. Despite the difficulties, the team showed resilience and a fighting spirit, qualities they will look to build upon in the new season. As fans eagerly await the return of football to RG2, this friendly against QPR offers a glimpse into how the team is shaping up for the challenges ahead.
The Opposition: Queens Park Rangers
QPR had a turbulent season in the Championship last year, eventually finishing 18th. Under the guidance of Marti Cifuentes, who took over from Gareth Ainsworth in October, the team showed significant improvement, particularly in the latter stages of the campaign. After struggling in the relegation zone early on, QPR climbed the table by winning eight of their final 14 games, including a standout 4-0 victory over Leeds. They ended the season level on points with 15th-placed Watford, narrowly missing a higher finish due to goal difference.
In their pre-season run-up, QPR has had mixed results, securing wins against UE Santa Coloma and L’Escala, the latter in a dominant 11-0 display. However, they faced tougher competition in recent matches, losing 2-0 to Tottenham Hotspur and 4-0 to Fulham, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter against Reading.
Players to Watch: Ilias Chair and More
One player that Reading’s defense will need to watch closely is Ilias Chair. The Moroccan midfielder has been in fine form, kicking off the pre-season with goals against UE Santa Coloma and a remarkable 33-minute hat-trick against L’Escala. Last season, Chair was QPR’s top scorer in both league and all competitions, tied with Lyndon Dykes, contributing to a total of 74 goal involvements in 236 games for the club.
Speaking of Dykes, he has a notable record against Reading, having scored five goals in five appearances against the Royals. Alongside Chair and Dykes, QPR’s squad features experienced players like Steve Cook and Jimmy Dunne in defense, as well as Jack Colback in midfield, all of whom add depth and quality to the team.
The Rivalry: A History of Close Encounters
Historically, matches between Reading and QPR have been closely contested. The last victory for Reading over QPR came at Loftus Road, with a memorable late free-kick from Michael Olise on his 19th birthday, securing a 1-0 win. At the Select Car Leasing Stadium, Reading’s last triumph against QPR was a Boxing Day fixture in 2019, highlighted by a stunning John Swift half-volley.
Overall, Reading has a slight edge in the historical head-to-head with 42 wins to QPR’s 33, alongside 27 draws. Despite not having beaten QPR in their last five competitive meetings (three draws and two losses), the Royals will be aiming to break that streak and gain momentum heading into the new season.
Looking Ahead
This pre-season match against QPR is not just a test of fitness and tactics but also an opportunity for fans to reconnect with the team and for the players to showcase their readiness for the upcoming Championship season. Ticket information and further details about streaming options will be provided in due course, ensuring that all fans can be part of the excitement.
As the Royals prepare for the season opener, this friendly offers a valuable chance to gauge the team’s progress, see new signings in action, and enjoy a day of football back at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. The fixture promises to be a competitive and entertaining match, a prelude to what hopes to be an exciting season ahead for Reading FC.
With the countdown to the new season well underway, this match is a significant milestone in the team’s journey. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or new to the Royals’ community, there’s plenty to look forward to as Reading FC takes on QPR in this crucial pre-season clash.
