Derby County boosted their play-off ambitions with a 1-0 victory over Birmingham City at Pride Park. The win, secured by a first-half header from Rhian Brewster, dealt a significant blow to Birmingham's own top-six hopes. Derby dominated throughout, earning their fourth consecutive home win and climbing the Championship table.

Birmingham entered the match knowing they needed a victory to keep their play-off push alive, but were second best from the opening whistle. Derby's bright start saw Brewster fire narrowly wide early on, before the decisive moment arrived in the 43rd minute. Derry Murkin's cross found Brewster, whose downward header beat goalkeeper James Beadle, who misjudged the flight of the ball.

John Eustace's side, who sacked him in October 2023, were thoroughly outplayed by his current Derby team. Birmingham offered little threat throughout, with Jonathan Panzo's wayward shot in the 65th minute their first on target. Derby could have extended their lead but had to settle for a hard-fought victory that strengthens their position in the promotion race.