Leeds United Host Sheffield Wednesday in Crucial Championship Clash

LEEDS, England — Two Yorkshire rivals, Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday, will face off in a high-stakes Championship match at Elland Road on Sunday, January 19, 2025. The game, set to kick off at 12 p.m. local time, pits promotion contenders against each other in a battle that could significantly impact the league standings.

Leeds United, currently second in the Championship with 53 points from 26 games, are determined to secure automatic promotion to the Premier League after last season’s playoff heartbreak. Under the guidance of manager Daniel Farke, the Whites have been formidable at home, boasting the division’s best home record. They have conceded just seven goals at Elland Road this season while scoring 30, contributing to only one league loss at home. Leeds are also on a nine-match unbeaten streak across all competitions.

However, Farke’s side has drawn their last two league matches, raising concerns about their ability to maintain momentum. “We cannot afford too many draws if we want automatic promotion,” Farke said. “Every point matters, especially with teams like Burnley, Sheffield United, and Sunderland close behind.”

Sheffield Wednesday, sitting 10th in the table, have defied expectations this season. After finishing 20th last year, the Owls have surged into playoff contention under manager Danny Rohl. A November defeat to Sheffield United marked a turning point, with Wednesday winning five and drawing four of their last 11 games. Their away form has also improved, with five wins in their last eight road matches.

Despite their resurgence, Wednesday face a daunting challenge against Leeds. The Owls have the sixth-worst defensive record in the league, having conceded 40 goals in 26 games. “Leeds are a top team, especially at home,” Rohl acknowledged. “We need to be at our best defensively to get anything from this game.”

Leeds will be without key players due to injuries, including a hamstring issue sidelining one of their stars for at least three weeks. However, leading scorer Patrick Bamford is available after missing last weekend’s FA Cup match. Sheffield Wednesday also have injury concerns, with several players lacking match sharpness or sidelined entirely.

Leeds United’s possible starting lineup includes Meslier in goal, with Wober, Rodon, Tanaka, and Bogle in defense. Ampadu, Rothwell, Aaronson, James, and Solomon are expected in midfield, with Piroe leading the attack. Sheffield Wednesday may field Beadle; Lowe, Bernard, Otegbayo, and Valentin in defense; Bannan, Charles, Gassama, Windass, and Musaba in midfield; and Ugbo up front.

With Leeds’ prolific attack—48 goals in 26 matches, the highest in the league—and Wednesday’s defensive vulnerabilities, the hosts are favored to win. However, Wednesday’s recent form suggests they could pose a significant challenge. “This is a Yorkshire derby, and anything can happen,” Farke added. “We must be ready.”