Goal.mu

Sheffield United will aim to move into the automatic promotion spots when they host relegation-threatened Portsmouth in the Championship on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 3pm UK time. The Blades are third in the table, level on points with second-placed Burnley, while Portsmouth sit 20th, just three points above the drop zone.

Interesting Fact: Sheffield United have not lost a competitive home match against Portsmouth in their last 25 meetings, a run stretching back to 1955.

Team Analysis

Sheffield United

Sheffield United are in strong form, having won four of their last five Championship matches. Chris Wilder’s side bounced back from a 3-0 home defeat to Hull City with a narrow 1-0 victory over Derby County last weekend, thanks to Ben Brereton Díaz’s second-half strike.

Current Form:

• Last 5 matches: 4 wins, 1 loss.
• Last match: 1-0 win over Derby County in the Championship.

Key Players:

• Ben Brereton Díaz: The forward has been in fine form, scoring crucial goals for the Blades.
• Gustavo Hamer: The midfielder’s creativity and energy will be vital after returning from suspension.

Injuries/Suspensions:

• Kieffer Moore (out, hernia issue).
• Ollie Arblaster (out, ACL injury).
• Tom Davies (doubtful, injury).

Home Form:
Sheffield United have been solid at Bramall Lane, with eight wins, three draws, and four losses in 15 home matches this season.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth are struggling for consistency, sitting just three points above the relegation zone. John Mousinho’s side are winless in their last three matches and have lost their last seven away games in all competitions.

Current Form:

• Last 5 matches: 1 win, 1 draw, 3 losses.
• Last match: 0-0 draw with Burnley in the Championship.

Key Players:

• Colby Bishop: The striker is Portsmouth’s top scorer and will be crucial to their survival hopes.
• Adil Aouchiche: The midfielder’s creativity could provide a spark for Pompey.

Injuries/Suspensions:

• Ibane Bowat, Jacob Farrell, and Paddy Lane (out, long-term injuries).
• Kusini Yengi, Jordan Williams, and Regan Poole (doubtful).
• Mark O’Mahony (late fitness test).

Away Form:
Portsmouth have been poor on the road, with just two wins, three draws, and 10 losses in 15 away matches this season.

Head-to-Head and Past Encounters

The last meeting between these two sides was in September 2024, when Sheffield United secured a 2-1 victory at Fratton Park. Historically, the Blades have dominated this fixture, especially at home.

Key Stats:

• Sheffield United are unbeaten in their last 25 home matches against Portsmouth.
• Portsmouth have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 16 away matches.

Prediction

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Sheffield United 2-0 Portsmouth

Sheffield United’s strong form and home advantage make them clear favourites for this clash. Portsmouth’s struggles on the road and defensive vulnerabilities suggest they will find it difficult to get a result. Expect the Blades to dominate possession and create numerous chances, with Ben Brereton Díaz likely to be the difference-maker.

Betting Tips

• Both Teams to Score: No
  Portsmouth have struggled to score in recent away matches.
• Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Under
  Sheffield United’s recent matches have been low-scoring, with three of their last five featuring under 2.5 goals.
• Anytime Goalscorer: Ben Brereton Díaz
  The in-form forward is likely to find the net.

Hot Stat

Sheffield United have scored in each of their last six home matches, with a first-half goal in every game during that run.

Possible Lineups

Sheffield United (4-2-3-1):
Cooper; Clarke, Ahmedhodžić, Robinson, Burrows; Souza, Choudhury; Brewster, O’Hare, Brereton Díaz; Cannon.

Portsmouth (4-4-2):
Schmid; Swanson, Shaughnessy, Atkinson, Ogilvie; Potts, Hayden; Lang, Aouchiche, Murphy; Bishop.

The content provided in this article is intended solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Betting and gambling involve significant risks, including the potential loss of the principal amount wagered. Readers should be aware of their local regulations and laws concerning online betting and gambling. Always gamble responsibly, knowing that the outcomes are unpredictable and can lead to financial losses.If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please seek help. Many organizations provide resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Remember, the best bet is always a well-informed decision.Never gamble with funds that are essential for your daily life, and always set limits to ensure you’re not gambling more than you can afford to lose. The thrill of the bet should never overshadow the potential consequences of loss. Stay safe, informed, and gamble responsibly.