Hull City 1-0 Sheffield United: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral's post-match review of Hull City 1-0 Sheffield United in the Championship on Saturday, 04 October 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Hull City secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sheffield United at home, a result that might surprise some given Sheffield's higher possession in the game. The Tigers have now broken a pattern of inconsistent results, following a draw and a loss in their recent outings. This win, highlighted by a crucial goal in the 30th minute, showcases Hull's ability to capitalise on limited opportunities. Sheffield United, on the other hand, continue to struggle, with this loss marking their fourth defeat in five games, further deepening their relegation concerns.

The match was a testament to Hull's resilience and tactical discipline. Despite Sheffield United dominating possession, Hull managed to keep a clean sheet and secure all three points. This result not only boosts Hull's confidence but also puts them in a stronger position in the league standings. For Sheffield United, the loss is a bitter pill to swallow, as they failed to convert their dominance into goals, a recurring issue in their recent form.

The statistics from the match reveal a game where Sheffield United had the upper hand in terms of possession, holding 62% compared to Hull's 38%. Despite this, Hull City managed to secure the win, which suggests they were more effective in their defensive and offensive transitions. Sheffield United's nine corners compared to Hull's four indicate they had more set-piece opportunities, yet they couldn't capitalise on them. The equal number of yellow cards for both teams shows a balanced approach to discipline, but Hull's higher successful dribble percentage (47% vs. Sheffield's 33%) might have played a key role in their ability to create the decisive goal.

The pivotal moment of the match came in the 30th minute when Hull City scored the only goal of the game. This early strike set the tone for the rest of the match, putting Sheffield United on the back foot and forcing them to chase the game. The goal was a result of effective teamwork and clinical finishing, which ultimately proved to be the difference between the two sides.

While Sheffield United had more possession and corners, they were unable to convert these advantages into goals. The lack of key moments from their side underscores their struggle to break down Hull's defence. This single goal from Hull City was enough to secure the victory, highlighting the importance of taking opportunities when they arise.

Hull City lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Ivor Pandur in goal and a backline of Lewie Coyle, John Egan, Charlie Hughes, and Ryan Giles. The midfield was anchored by Regan Slater and John Lundstram, with Joe Gelhardt, Darko Gyabi, and Babajide David Akintola supporting striker Oliver McBurnie. The lineup showed no major surprises, but the impact of Akintola's goal in the 30th minute cannot be understated. The five substitutions made by Hull suggest a tactical flexibility that helped them maintain their lead and secure the win.

Sheffield United opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Michael Cooper between the posts and a defensive trio of Japhet Tanganga, Mark McGuinness, and Ben Mee. The midfield was comprised of Chiedozie Ogbene, Sydie Peck, Alex Matos, and Sam McCallum, with Gustavo Hamer and Callum O'Hare playing just behind striker Tyrese Campbell. Despite their possession dominance, the lineup failed to produce the necessary goal-scoring threat. The five substitutions made by Sheffield United indicate an attempt to change the game's dynamics, but it was not enough to overturn the deficit.

Babajide David Akintola is Coral's Man of the Match for his decisive contribution to Hull City's victory. Scoring the only goal of the game in the 30th minute, Akintola's impact was crucial in securing the three points for his team. Despite not registering any assists or key passes, his goal was the defining moment of the match, showcasing his ability to make a significant difference when it mattered most.

Recent Championship matches:

• Win: 1-0 vs Sheffield United (H)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Preston North End (H)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Watford (A)

• Win: 3-1 vs Southampton (H)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Swansea City (A)

Recent Championship matches:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Hull City (A)

• Loss: 1-2 vs Southampton (H)

• Win: 1-0 vs Oxford United (A)

• Loss: 0-1 vs Charlton Athletic (H)

• Loss: 0-5 vs Ipswich Town (A)

Sitting comfortably in 11th place with 12 points, Hull City will face Birmingham City, who are just one position and point behind them, on October 18, 2025 at 15:00. This recent victory could boost their confidence as they approach this crucial mid-table clash, potentially influencing their strategy to maintain their momentum and climb higher in the standings.

Struggling at the bottom of the table in 24th place with only 3 points, Sheffield United's next challenge is against Watford, who sit in 17th with 9 points, on October 18, 2025 at 15:00. This loss to Hull City might force Sheffield to reassess their approach, as they desperately need a positive result to start climbing out of the relegation zone.

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