Sheffield United v Bristol City: Match Preview, Odds, Lineups, Prediction

Explore Coral's detailed preview for Sheffield Utd vs Bristol City in the Championship on match day 1. Stats, odds, predictions, and lineups for the 17:30 BST match.

• Fixture: Sheffield Utd vs Bristol City

• Date: Saturday, 09 August 2025

• Kick-off: 17:30 BST

• Venue: Bramall Lane

These opening day fixtures tend to be tricky to predict, as the only information we are going on is the respective clubs' pre-season form, which is sometimes misleading due to squad rotation and experimental line-ups. 

However, based on the head-to-head record, Sheffield Utd appears to have a slight edge over Bristol City. The Blades have secured comfortable victories in the last two meetings, suggesting they might have the psychological advantage going into this game. The Yorkshire outfit will aim to dominate possession in order to create the all-important goal-scoring opportunities. 

Bristol City will need to be at the top of their game to end their poor run of form against Sheffield United. The visitors will need to focus on a solid defensive strategy and capitalise on any counter-attacking opportunities. The outcome of this match could hinge on The Robin's ability to disrupt Sheffield Utd's rhythm and exploit any defensive lapses.

Match Prediction: Sheffield Utd 2-1 Bristol City

The Blades enjoyed a promising pre-season campaign, which has included victories over York City, Rotherham, Burton Albion and Chesterfield. Ruben Selles’ team has been prolific in front of goal, scoring an impressive 17 goals in the four victories. 

Their strong head-to-head record against Bristol City indicates they have had the upper hand over the Robins in recent meetings. If Sheffield Utd can replicate their recent performances, they should be able to control the game and create numerous scoring chances. Their confidence from recent victories could play a significant role in their approach to this match.

Recent Championship Results:

• (L) 1-2 play-off final defeat against Sunderland (24/05/25)

• (W) 3-0 at home to Bristol City (12/05/25)

• (W) 3-0 at Bristol City (08/05/25)

• (D) 1-1 at home against Blackburn Rovers (03/05/25)

• (W) 2-0 at Stoke City  (25/04/25)

Similarly to their opponents, Bristol City have enjoyed a decent pre-season, which has seen them record wins over Newport County and Plymouth Argyle. A positive pre-season was needed after they ended last season’s Championship campaign with a poor run of form, including losing to Saturday’s opponents in both legs of the play-off semi-finals.

Their head-to-head record against Sheffield Utd indicates a struggle against the Yorkshire side in recent meetings. To turn the tide, Bristol City will need to show resilience and tactical discipline. If they can improve their defensive organisation and capitalise on any mistakes by Sheffield Utd, they might have a chance of securing a positive result.

Recent Championship Results:

• (L) 0-3 at Sheffield United (12/05/25)

• (L) 0-3 at home against Sheffield United (08/05/25)

• (D) 2-2 at home against Preston (03/05/25)

• (L) 0-4 at Leeds United (28/04/25)

• (L) 1-3 at Luton Town (21/04/25)

Historically, Sheffield Utd has had the upper hand against Bristol City, winning four out of their last five encounters. The Blades have consistently outperformed the Robins, with their most recent matches resulting in convincing victories.

Recent Championship Results

• Sheffield Utd 3-0 Bristol City (12 May 2025)

• Bristol City 0-3 Sheffield Utd (08 May 2025)

• Sheffield Utd 1-1 Bristol City (11 Mar 2025)

• Bristol City 1-2 Sheffield Utd (05 Nov 2024)

• Sheffield Utd 1-0 Bristol City (18 Apr 2023)

• Jamie Shackleton (Foot injury) - Doubtful

• Luke McNally (Cruciate ligament injury) - Out

• 4-3-3: Cooper; Seriki, Robinson, Ahmedhodzic, Norrington-Davies; Peck, Caceres, Hamer; Ukaki, Cannon, Barry

Sheffield Utd's predicted line-up suggests a focus on maintaining a strong midfield presence to control the game's tempo. Their recent success against Bristol City indicates they might continue to prioritise possession and look to exploit the flanks.

• 4-2-3-1: Thomas; Tanner, Vyner, Atkinson, McCrorie; Knight, Randell; Hirakawa, Mehmeti, Twine; Riis

Bristol City's predicted line-up suggests a strategy to counter Sheffield United's dominance by strengthening their defence.

• Gustavo Hamer (Sheffield Utd) vs Jason Knight (Bristol City): This match-up in midfield could dictate the flow of the game.

• Jack Robinson (Sheffield Utd) vs Rob Atkinson (Bristol City): The battle between these two defenders will be crucial in preventing goals.

• Jack Robinson (Sheffield Utd): His leadership at the back will be vital for Sheffield Utd's defensive stability.

• Emil Riis (Bristol City): His attacking threat could be the key to unlocking Sheffield Utd's defence.

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.