Preston North End vs Sheffield United Prediction & Betting Tips - Championship

Prediction published on 09/08/2024, 06:31  by Sridhar in Championship Predictions

Life back in the Championship for Sheffield United starts with a tricky trip to Deepdale, facing Preston. This match of the new season will be played on Friday night, and the prediction is that the home fans could have the last laugh.

Preston finished just outside the playoff spots last year, ten points outside the top six. It could have been a different story if they hadn’t fallen away late in the season. The Lilywhites ended with five straight defeats, and with each of those losses coming without scoring, Preston wouldn’t want to look back at the last season.

Despite their overall indifferent form, Preston were a tough team to beat in home matches, winning 11 and drawing four of their 23 home league games last season. Another aspirant for the playoff spot is Sheffield United, who were relegated from the Premier League last year with only 16 points, finishing as the last side out of 20.

The Blades will look for an immediate promotion back to the top division but will have to navigate through a two-point penalty. United were handed a two-point penalty for defaulting on payments to other clubs. That said, their performance in the friendly matches preceding the season has been impressive.

Sheffield United won four and drew one of their last five friendlies, giving some momentum in their quest to start well. They have also won their last two matches against Preston, when the sides last met in the Champions League in the 2022–23 season.