Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Leeds United are just four points away from securing automatic promotion to the Premier League. Stoke City appear to be the most straightforward opportunity to pick up three of those points, given that they effectively have nothing left to play for. However, outcomes on the pitch are never guaranteed.
Leeds United
Following Matchweek 40, the team dropped to third place, prompting fears that they might lose the automatic promotion spot they had safeguarded throughout the season. However, Sheffield United stumbled, and three narrow wins over mid-table sides were enough for Leeds United to climb back to the top of the standings. Manor Solomon stood out during that run, playing a part in all four goals scored — contributing two goals and two assists.
Stoke City
Stoke City had a similar record over their previous five fixtures: three victories and two defeats, all against mid-table opposition. In essence, they held their ground. Two of those three wins came at home. Cardiff City handed over all three points on their own turf only due to an own goal in the 85th minute. In Matchweek 43, the team had some fortune in the 2:0 win over Sheffield Wednesday. While the first goal was well taken, the second was a bizarre one: the ball ricocheted off Ben Wilmot’s back after a goalkeeper error, and the woodwork also came to the team’s rescue.
Leeds United vs Stoke City Prediction
In the reverse fixture, Stoke City lost 0:2 at home to Leeds United, conceding both goals in the second half. The home side clearly have more to play for than the visitors at this stage — it is unlikely that enough teams below Stoke City will mount a late surge to threaten their position. We are backing a Leeds United win, but do not expect too many goals, which has been typical for them in recent weeks.
