Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Stoke City were the team that officially confirmed Leeds United’s promotion to the Premier League next season (0:5). Now they face another stern test — third-placed Sheffield United. Or perhaps it's not as formidable a challenge as it seems?
Stoke City
Stoke City have yet to mathematically secure their status in the Championship for next season, currently sitting 17th in the standings. While they are safe from finishing 23rd or 24th, there remains a slim risk of dropping to 22nd. Should the team lose both of their remaining matches — particularly if by significant margins — and Luton Town win their games with a healthy goal difference, relegation could still become a reality. The heavy loss to Leeds United can largely be attributed to the league leaders’ momentum, with 11 of their 18 shots on target and more than half of those resulting in goals (0:5).
Sheffield United
In the same round, Sheffield United saw their final hopes of automatic promotion slip away with a 1:2 defeat at Burnley. Had they secured a draw, the five-point gap would have been maintained. While not mathematically out of contention, their chances are now extremely slim. Did the team deserve more from their trip to Turf Moor? Despite recording more attempts (15 compared to 10), analysts noted their chances were less effective (0.80–2.04 in xG).
Stoke City vs Sheffield United Prediction
Stoke City are marginally favoured in this fixture — and we tend to agree. After such a demoralising defeat, Sheffield United appear mentally fatigued, having occupied a top-two position from round 18 to round 40 with minimal interruption. Four defeats in their last five outings also weigh against the visitors. A straightforward win for Stoke City is a viable option, but we’ll take a more conservative bet.
