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The highly anticipated Yorkshire derby between Leeds United and Sheffield United is set to take place at Elland Road on Friday, 18th October 2024, at 8:00 PM UK time. Separated by just three points, both teams are vying for supremacy at the top end of the Championship table. Leeds United, currently fifth, aim to bounce back after consecutive draws, while their rivals, Sheffield United, sit second and remain unbeaten this season. The stakes are high, as both teams are eyeing promotion to the Premier League, and this fixture promises to be a crucial chapter in their campaigns.

Leeds United are eager to return to winning ways after a series of frustrating draws before the international break. Daniel Farke’s men have had a mixed start to the 2024-25 season, winning four of their first nine games, alongside four draws and one loss. Despite this, Leeds remains firmly in the race for promotion, just three points behind second-placed Sheffield United. Their recent performances, including a 1-1 draw against Norwich City and a 2-2 tie with Sunderland, highlight their resilience but also point to a need for sharper defensive play.

Sheffield United, on the other hand, has been in impeccable form, remaining unbeaten in their nine Championship outings. Chris Wilder’s side has defied early-season predictions, even overcoming a two-point deduction to climb to second in the league. With 21 points from nine matches and only three goals conceded all season, the Blades are looking to assert their dominance in this Yorkshire derby and extend their unbeaten run to 10 games.

This fixture is especially intriguing as it marks the first meeting between these two historic rivals in over three years, adding another layer of intensity to an already heated clash.

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Team Analysis

Leeds United:
Leeds United have shown flashes of brilliance under Daniel Farke, but they will need more consistency to close the gap on the automatic promotion spots. They have been solid at home, with their only defeat coming at the hands of Burnley. Their attacking lineup, led by Joel Piroe, who scored in their recent 2-2 draw with Sunderland, is capable of breaking down any defence. Supported by Brenden Aaronson, Willy Gnonto, and Largie Ramazani in a 4-2-3-1 formation, Leeds’ attack can be a potent force when in full flow.

However, Leeds’ defensive lapses, particularly in the late stages of games, have cost them valuable points. Illan Meslier’s mistake against Sunderland, which led to an injury-time equaliser, is a prime example of the concentration issues that need to be addressed. The partnership between Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk in central defence will be crucial in keeping Sheffield United’s in-form attack at bay.

Leeds will also be without key midfielders Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev due to injuries. In their absence, Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka are expected to start in midfield. Wingers Daniel James and Manor Solomon, who have recovered from injuries, are likely to be in contention for a place in the squad.

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Sheffield United:
Sheffield United have been the standout team in the Championship this season, largely due to their rock-solid defence. They have kept six consecutive clean sheets and boast the best defensive record across England’s second, third, and fourth tiers, conceding just three goals in nine games. This defensive solidity, led by centre-backs Harry Souttar and Anel Ahmedhodzic, has been the foundation of their success.

In attack, Sheffield United have also found form, with Jesurun Rak-Sakyi emerging as a key player. His brace in the 2-0 win over Luton Town before the international break took his goal tally to five for the season. With Gustavo Hamer, who has scored four times this season, pulling the strings in midfield, the Blades have a well-rounded squad capable of challenging for the top spot.

Manager Chris Wilder is expected to name a similar starting XI to the one that secured victory over Luton, with Kieffer Moore leading the line. The return of Oliver Arblaster from injury further strengthens their midfield options.

Head-to-Head:
The last meeting between Leeds United and Sheffield United was over three years ago, making this clash a fresh start in their rivalry. Historically, both teams have enjoyed success against each other, but Leeds will be looking to end Sheffield United’s unbeaten run and reassert their dominance in this Yorkshire derby.

Prediction: With both teams in strong form, this match is set to be a closely contested affair. However, Sheffield United’s defensive record and unbeaten streak give them a slight edge. Leeds United’s home advantage and attacking firepower will make it difficult for the Blades, but the visitors’ consistency and resilience may see them come away with a narrow victory.

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Leeds United 1-2 Sheffield United

• Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes. Leeds United’s attacking options, combined with Sheffield United’s formidable defence, suggest that both teams will find the back of the net.
• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over. Given the attacking talent on display and the high stakes of the match, there is a strong likelihood of at least three goals being scored.
• Hot Stat: Sheffield United have kept six consecutive clean sheets in the Championship, making them the toughest defensive side in the league.

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