Finn Azaz's first-half finish proved the difference as Southampton surged into the Championship play-off spots with a 1-0 win over Norwich City.

Tonda Eckert's side extended to 11 games unbeaten after Wednesday's crucial home victory saw them leapfrog Wrexham and claim sixth in the table, just three points behind fifth-placed Hull City.

Anis Slimane forced a smart early save from Daniel Peretz, but Southampton – who had just seen a Samuel Edozie finish ruled out for offside – hit the front after 25 minutes when Azaz stormed onto Cyle Larin's pass from James Bree's throw-in and finished with aplomb.

Mathias Kvistgaarden then mistimed a diving header in response before Larin and Slimane saw chances smothered at either end during the start of the second half.

Kenny McLean concerned Southampton with a dipping strike before Peretz atoned for an error, brilliantly denying Kellen Fisher's attempt.

And although they were forced to hold on at the end, substitute Shea Charles forced an eye-catching stop on the break from Vladan Kovacevic as Southampton clinched a pivotal three points in the top-six race.

EI EI EI OH pic.twitter.com/UeSRo5vIDQ

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) March 18, 2026

Data Debrief: Home comforts for Azaz-inspired Saints

The Canaries may have always feared Azaz, who now has five goal involvements in his last seven league appearances against Norwich (four goals, one assist).

Southampton's home record, meanwhile, has them dreaming of a play-off pursuit. They have lost only one of their 12 home league games under Eckert (W8 D3), winning four of their last five matches.

Hull City are the only side to defeat Eckert at St. Mary's, winning 2-1 in January, while only Ipswich Town (0) have lost fewer home games in the Championship since Eckert took charge.

They may have been fortunate to win this one, though, having seen Norwich accumulate 1.11 expected goals (xG) to Southampton's 0.58.