Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Leeds United have won yet again, so Sheffield United must secure three points if they want to stay in the title race. A loss could also allow Burnley to draw level on points. Meanwhile, Middlesbrough, despite having a game in hand, also need a result—they currently sit just outside the play-off spots.
Sheffield United
Sheffield United have faced teams from the lower half of the table in their last four matches, but their performances have been far from convincing. Each of their recent victories has come by just one goal. For example, they only managed to edge Swansea City (2:1) after their opponents were reduced to ten men and conceded a penalty. Their home defeat against Hull City (0:3) was particularly alarming.
Middlesbrough
Sheffield United have historically struggled against Middlesbrough. In the 2022/23 season, when Sheffield United earned promotion to the Premier League, Middlesbrough took four points from them, winning 3:1 at Bramall Lane and drawing 2:2 at home. In this campaign, they have already beaten them 1:0 in the first leg. Additionally, Middlesbrough have found the net in each of their last six matches, securing points in three of them.
Sheffield United vs Middlesbrough Prediction
With Sheffield United struggling to score at home—they have failed to find the net in three of their last six matches—Middlesbrough have a great opportunity to take at least a point. Given that Middlesbrough have the third-highest goal tally in the Championship, backing them to score and avoid defeat seems the most logical bet.
