Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Cardiff City face one of their toughest challenges in the first round of their survival battle against Sheffield United. Even playing at home does not significantly change the outlook.
Cardiff City
Surprisingly, the Welsh side have picked up more points on the road recently than at home. They have recorded three consecutive away draws—against the other Sheffield team, Wednesday (1:1), Coventry City (2:2), and Stoke City (2:2). At home in Wales, Cardiff City have suffered three consecutive losses to Blackburn Rovers (1:3), Queens Park Rangers (0:2), and Preston North End (0:2). The latter two are not among the top teams, being direct rivals in the battle to stay in the Championship.
Sheffield United
Sheffield United have finally managed to create at least a slight gap of three points from their competitors, establishing themselves as the sole leaders of the league. It is worth noting that they started the season with a two-point deduction for past mistakes. They have experienced a few setbacks on the road, with 2:2 draws against Coventry and West Bromwich Albion in their last five matches, but they consistently score two goals in four out of five games.
Cardiff City vs Sheffield United Prediction
Cardiff's defence is subpar and they concede regularly, so they are unlikely to leave the field without conceding at least one goal. There is a high probability they won't secure any points from this fixture. Moreover, the last four encounters between these teams have ended in favour of Sheffield United, regardless of the venue, so we're backing a straightforward win for the visitors.
