Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Neighbours in the mid-table will clash on Saturday at Pride Park. Derby County have allowed Norwich City to catch up with them. Can they pull ahead once again?
Derby County
It is becoming apparent that Derby County might remain in the Championship for another season. The team, with a squad valued at 20 million euros (third from the bottom), has proven that, at least at home, they are capable of a lot. At home, they have secured three wins, scored five goals, and kept three clean sheets. Away, the situation is reversed, with three losses in three matches, although the defeats came against clubs in the top eight. It's worth noting that the total under 3.5 has been successful in five out of six Championship matches.
Norwich City
Norwich City secured their first substantial victory, beating Watford (4:1). In this match, the team performed well offensively, scoring more than expected (2.72 xG), and their shots translated into quality (4 out of 19 or 21%). However, looking at their three away matches, it becomes clear that they struggle to score more than one goal; they created chances worth 2.36 xG, less than in the single match against Watford. The only goal in their away games brought them a win over Coventry City.
Derby County vs Norwich City Prediction
Bookmakers still rate Norwich City's chances of winning higher than the hosts'. Perhaps they remember Norwich City's victory at Derby County's ground 2.5 years ago (1:0). Back then, Norwich City convincingly won the Championship, while Derby County barely avoided relegation. Now, Derby County have scored eight goals with 6.63 xG. They might not necessarily win, but we don't believe they will lose to Norwich City. Our prediction is for a low-scoring match where the hosts will not be defeated.
