Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Derby County have the 22nd most expensive squad in the league, while Cardiff City hold the 12th spot, but this has had no bearing on their table standings. The hosts sit in 10th place, whereas the visitors are at the bottom.
Derby County
The Championship newcomer has proven to be a formidable force at home, judging by their results. Their first win came by sheer luck (1:0 against Middlesbrough), but the second, in the fourth round, was well-deserved. They thrashed Bristol City 3:0, with their last goal coming in the dying minutes on a counter-attack. This wouldn’t have been possible without creating chances: 19 shots, 7 on target, 4 big chances. Do not be surprised if they clinch another win, perhaps even keeping a clean sheet, especially since their upcoming opponent occupies the bottom of the table.
Cardiff City
The Welsh side's performance in August has been a painful disappointment. Key players, except for defender Mark McGuinness, remained in the squad, and they made some new signs, but the outcome has been dismal: the lowest number of goals scored (1) and the most conceded (10), resulting in a last-place standing. They have yet to halt their decline. After drawing in the Welsh derby with Swansea City, they suffered another home defeat to Middlesbrough (0:2), who themselves were not performing well prior. Cardiff managed to create enough chances for a goal only in the first round against Sunderland (1.02 xG). In other games, their xG did not even reach 1.
Derby County — Cardiff City Prediction
Even as a Championship newcomer, Derby County look like favourites against a sinking Cardiff City. Of course, the odds for a Derby County win are quite high, and anything can happen, so for reliability, it's better to opt for a Derby County ( ) handicap. This way, at least you get a refund if it ends in a draw. If you have no confidence in Cardiff City at all, you can bet on a clean win for Derby County with odds significantly higher than .
