Mentality, squad depth and more – Why Middlesbrough have a knack for scoring late goals

Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg has credited player mentality, improved physical conditioning, and squad depth for the team's ability to score crucial late goals this season. Neto Borges' recent late winner against Stoke marked the fourth occasion Middlesbrough earned points through goals scored after the 85th minute, following stoppage-time victories against Norwich City and Lincoln City, alongside an 88th-minute equalizer from Adilson Malanda against Birmingham City.

Hellberg explained that tactical structure often fades in the final minutes, leaving players to rely on mental resilience, composure, and work rate to secure results. The manager also emphasized that extensive recruitment and coaching focused on breaking down low defensive blocks, combined with high-speed running metrics and impact substitutes, have resolved the late-game fatigue that previously hindered the squad.