Sheffield United vs Sunderland

The upcoming Championship clash at Bramall Lane on Friday, May 16, 2025, pits second-placed Sheffield United against third-placed Sunderland in a pivotal contest for promotion. Sheffield United, with 35 points from 17 games, trail leaders Leeds United only on goal difference despite a two-point deduction at the season’s start.

The Blades are in formidable form at home, having won their last seven matches at Bramall Lane without conceding, bolstered by a sturdy defense that has allowed just nine goals all season—the second-best record in the division. Their recent 3-0 victory over Oxford United, with goals from Callum O’Hare, Tyrese Campbell, and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, underlines their attacking potency, having scored 24 goals this term. Chris Wilder’s side will aim for an eighth straight home win to solidify their position at the top.

Sunderland, sitting on 33 points, are two points behind but boast the Championship’s longest unbeaten run, stretching 10 games since their last defeat in September.

However, their momentum has been hampered by five consecutive draws, including a 1-1 result at Millwall and a goalless stalemate against West Bromwich Albion. Despite their resilience under manager Regis Le Bris, with nine wins and only two losses this season, the Black Cats’ recent inability to convert draws into victories has seen them slip from the top spot. Their attack, led by players like Aaron Connolly, will need to penetrate Sheffield United’s resolute defense to reclaim the summit.

Given Sheffield United’s impeccable home record and defensive solidity, they hold a slight edge. Sunderland’s unbeaten streak and balanced squad make them dangerous, but their draw-heavy form suggests they may struggle to break down the Blades at Bramall Lane. A tight, low-scoring affair is likely, with Sheffield United potentially extending their home winning streak.

With attackers Kieffer Moore and Rhian Brewster out due to injury, midfielder Oliver Arblaster and defender Anel Ahmedhodzic still suspended, Chris Wilder should start a lineup similar to Sheffield United's from Tuesday's 3-0 triumph.

With five goals in his last six games, Tyrese Campbell will be confidently leading the line with help from Gustavo Hamer, Callum O'Hare, and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, who has also scored in consecutive games.

Romaine Mundle, Alan Browne, Ian Poveda, Niall Huggins, Dennis Cirkin, and Jenson Seelt are all expected to miss Friday's trip, adding to Sunderland's already lengthy injury list.