Sheffield Wednesday vs Leeds United

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Date & Time: August 23, 2024, 8:00 PM (UK)
Venue: Hillsborough Stadium
Match Type: Championship - Gameweek 3

Introduction

In an eagerly anticipated Yorkshire derby, Sheffield Wednesday will host Leeds United at Hillsborough Stadium on Friday, August 23, 2024. Both teams are in search of vital points as they navigate the early stages of the Championship season. Sheffield Wednesday aims to rebound from a recent setback, while Leeds United is still hunting for their first victory of the campaign. This fixture promises to be a fiercely contested battle as both sides strive to establish momentum.

Match Preview

Sheffield Wednesday: Current Form and Outlook

Sheffield Wednesday's return to Championship action began with a resounding 4-0 victory over Plymouth Argyle, raising hopes of a strong campaign under manager Danny Rohl. The optimism continued as the Owls secured a 2-1 win against Hull City in the EFL Cup, with Charlie McNeill netting both goals.

However, their momentum was halted abruptly by a crushing 4-0 defeat at Sunderland, where defensive frailties were exposed. The heavy loss highlighted inconsistencies that Rohl must address if they are to compete at the top end of the table. With Leeds United visiting Hillsborough, Sheffield Wednesday will be eager to bounce back and secure their first win against their rivals since 2020.

Sheffield Wednesday Recent Results:

• Sunderland 4-0 Sheffield Wednesday (Championship)
• Hull City 1-2 Sheffield Wednesday (EFL Cup)
• Sheffield Wednesday 4-0 Plymouth Argyle (Championship)

Leeds United: Current Form and Outlook

Leeds United entered the 2024-25 Championship season with high expectations after narrowly missing out on promotion last season. However, their start has been underwhelming, drawing both of their opening fixtures. A dramatic 3-3 draw against Portsmouth, where Brenden Aaronson salvaged a point in stoppage time, was followed by a goalless draw at West Bromwich Albion.

The Whites have also been plagued by high-profile departures, with key players such as Georginio Rutter leaving the club. The uncertainty in the squad has contributed to their slow start, and manager Daniel Farke will be under pressure to deliver a win in this derby to kickstart their season.

Leeds United Recent Results:

• West Bromwich Albion 0-0 Leeds United (Championship)
• Leeds United 0-3 Middlesbrough (EFL Cup)
• Leeds United 3-3 Portsmouth (Championship)

Team News and Possible Lineups

Sheffield Wednesday

Sheffield Wednesday is likely to field a strong lineup, with only goalkeeper Ben Hamer sidelined due to injury. Manager Danny Rohl may consider changes following their defeat to Sunderland, potentially bringing Ike Ugbo into the starting XI after his permanent move from Troyes. Josh Windass might be replaced by Liam Palmer, who could add more stability in midfield alongside Barry Bannan and Svante Ingelsson. On the wings, Anthony Musaba and Djeidi Gassama are expected to retain their spots.

Predicted Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Beadle
• Defenders: Valery, Iorfa, Bernard, Lowe
• Midfielders: Ingelsson, Palmer, Bannan
• Forwards: Gassama, Musaba, Ugbo

Leeds United

Leeds United will travel to Hillsborough with a full squad available. Despite their summer departures, Daniel Farke has options, particularly in attack. Brenden Aaronson is expected to start in a 4-2-3-1 formation, supporting a lone striker, likely to be Patrick Bamford or Joel Piroe. The midfield duo of Ilia Gruev and Ethan Ampadu will aim to control the game, while Jayden Bogle, Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, and Junior Firpo should form a solid back four.

Predicted Starting XI:

• Goalkeeper: Meslier
• Defenders: Bogle, Rodon, Struijk, Firpo
• Midfielders: Gruev, Ampadu
• Attacking Midfielders: James, Aaronson, Gnonto
• Forward: Bamford

Head-to-Head Stats

Recent Meetings:

• Leeds United has generally had the upper hand in recent encounters, but Sheffield Wednesday will take heart from their 2-0 win at Elland Road in January 2020.

Match Prediction

While Leeds United's squad remains strong despite their summer losses, Sheffield Wednesday may have the edge given Leeds’ slow start. The home advantage at Hillsborough could prove crucial, but Leeds’ quality in attack might be enough to secure a point in what promises to be a closely fought derby.

Prediction: Sheffield Wednesday 1-1 Leeds United

Conclusion

This Yorkshire derby is poised to be an intense contest with both Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United eager to secure a positive result. Leeds will be looking to break their winless streak, while Wednesday aims to recover from their recent setback. The outcome of this match could significantly impact both teams' early-season momentum as they seek to climb the Championship table.