Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the EFL Cup match.
Both sides dropped points at the weekend: the hosts conceded an equaliser in stoppage time against Ipswich Town (1:1), while Sheffield United suffered a heavy 1:4 defeat to Bristol City. It is clear that Birmingham will look to put pressure on the visitors’ defence from the outset in the cup.
Birmingham City
After a record-breaking League One season (111 points), the club returned to the Championship and enjoyed a busy transfer window. In the opener against Ipswich Town, several new signings started, with Jay Stansfield putting the team ahead before a controversial late penalty denied them the win. St. Andrew’s is a fortress — last season brought 19 wins in 23 home matches without a single defeat. In the EFL Cup, Birmingham have beaten Sheffield United in both previous meetings.
Sheffield United
A new manager began his tenure with a 1:4 loss to Bristol City, despite thrashing them in the play-offs just months ago. Sheffield United are in transition but still hope to push for promotion. They have won on their last two trips to Birmingham, though they have never managed three in a row there. Pre-season was prolific in terms of goals, but in competitive fixtures Sheffield United have been more restrained.
Birmingham City vs Sheffield United Prediction
Birmingham are strong at home and disciplined defensively, while Sheffield United are still searching for their best line-up and balance. Both sides are likely to start cautiously in the cup, and potential rotations could further reduce attacking threat. The head-to-head record favours the visitors, but this feels like the perfect time for Birmingham to get their revenge.
