Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Friday night in the Championship brings a fascinating contrast. Derby County are still searching for their first points after two defeats, while Bristol City head to Pride Park unbeaten and with a defence that looks much more reliable than the hosts’.
Derby County
Derby opened with a 1:3 defeat away to Stoke City, followed by a chaotic 3:5 loss at home to Coventry City, where they somehow managed to throw away a 3:2 lead by conceding three times in just seven minutes. They did edge past West Bromwich Albion on penalties in the League Cup, but in the league the defensive numbers are grim — eight goals conceded in two games, the worst record in the division. Going forward, though, they’ve looked sharp, with Callum Elder, Carlton Morris and Ebou Adams all finding the net.
Bristol City
Bristol City made a summer managerial change, and Gerhard Struber’s return has been an early success. A statement 4:1 win over Sheffield United was followed by a 2:0 League Cup victory over MK Dons and a goalless draw with Charlton. In the Championship, they’ve let in just one goal so far, looking well-drilled at the back. Head-to-head also favours Bristol City — six wins in their last eight meetings with Derby. Their away form has shown promise too, underlined by that convincing start in Sheffield.
Derby County vs Bristol City Prediction
The numbers are stark: Derby’s defence is leaking badly, and in the Championship those lapses rarely go unpunished. Bristol are far more balanced, particularly in defence, and have the form and head-to-head record to back it up. Everything points to an away win.