Sheffield United 1-3 Derby County: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral's post-match review of Sheffield United 1-3 Derby County in the Championship on Saturday, 01 November 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Derby County secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, a result that might have surprised many given Sheffield's recent form. The Blades, who had won two of their last four matches before this encounter, were unable to maintain their momentum against a Derby side that has now won three of their last four games. The match saw Derby take an early lead and extend it with a penalty in the second half, showcasing their clinical finishing. Sheffield United's solitary goal came late in the game, but it was too little too late to mount a comeback.

For Sheffield United, this loss marks a disappointing end to what had been a promising run of form. Despite dominating possession, they struggled to convert their chances into goals, a recurring theme in their recent losses. Derby, on the other hand, capitalised on their opportunities, with Carlton Morris proving to be the standout performer. This result not only boosts Derby's confidence but also puts a dent in Sheffield United's aspirations for a higher league position.

The statistics from the match reveal a stark contrast between possession and outcome. Sheffield United enjoyed 62% of the ball compared to Derby's 38%, yet it was Derby who emerged victorious. The Blades also had more corners, with nine to Derby's four, indicating a higher level of pressure in the final third. However, Derby's efficiency in front of goal, evidenced by their successful penalty and higher number of assists, was the decisive factor in the game.

Despite Sheffield United's dominance in possession and set-piece opportunities, their inability to score from open play or penalties was telling. Derby, on the other hand, made the most of their limited possession, with a penalty and a well-taken goal in the second half proving crucial. The yellow card count was relatively low, with Sheffield United receiving two and Derby one, suggesting a fairly disciplined game from both sides.

Derby County took the lead early in the game with a goal in the 24th minute, setting the tone for their performance. This early strike put Sheffield United on the back foot and forced them to chase the game. The Rams extended their lead just after halftime with another goal in the 46th minute, a quick start to the second half that further demoralised the home side. The decisive moment came in the 63rd minute when Derby were awarded a penalty, which they converted to make it 3-0.

Sheffield United's only response came in the 73rd minute when they managed to pull one back. However, this late goal was merely a consolation and did little to change the outcome of the match. The key moments clearly favoured Derby, who were clinical in their finishing and took advantage of their opportunities. Sheffield United's late goal, while a positive note, was not enough to salvage a result.

Sheffield United lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Michael Cooper in goal and a back three of Japhet Tanganga, Mark McGuinness, and Ben Mee. The midfield was anchored by Sydie Peck and Djibril Soumaré, with Chiedozie Ogbene and Sam McCallum providing width. Up front, Callum O'Hare and Andre Brooks supported striker Tyrese Campbell. The lineup showed no major surprises, but the team's inability to convert possession into goals was a notable issue.

The Blades made five substitutions during the match, indicating an attempt to change the game's dynamics. However, these changes did not yield the desired impact, as evidenced by their late and solitary goal. Tyrese Campbell's performance was a highlight, but the team as a whole struggled to break down Derby's defence.

Derby County opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Jacob Widell Zetterström between the posts and a back three of Sondre Langås, Dion Sanderson, and Matt Clarke. The midfield was controlled by Bobby Clark and David Ozoh, with Joe Ward and Craig Forsyth providing width. Up top, Ben Brereton Díaz and Patrick Agyemang supported the standout performer, Carlton Morris. The lineup was well-balanced and effective, with Morris proving to be the difference-maker.

Derby made four substitutions throughout the game, showing a willingness to adapt and maintain their lead. The impact of these changes was positive, as they managed to keep Sheffield United at bay and secure the victory. Carlton Morris's hat-trick was the highlight of the match, demonstrating his clinical finishing and importance to the team.

Carlton Morris is Coral's Man of the Match, and his performance was nothing short of exceptional. Scoring all three goals for Derby County, Morris showcased his clinical finishing and ability to be in the right place at the right time. His contribution was pivotal in securing the victory for the Rams, and his hat-trick will be remembered as a standout moment in the match.

• Loss: 1-3 vs Derby County (H)
• Loss: 2-3 vs Preston North End (A)
• Win: 3-1 vs Blackburn Rovers (A)
• Win: 1-0 vs Watford (H)
• Loss: 0-1 vs Hull City (A)

• Win: 3-1 vs Sheffield United (A)
• Win: 1-0 vs Queens Park Rangers (H)
• Win: 1-0 vs Norwich City (H)
• Loss: 0-1 vs Oxford United (A)
• Draw: 1-1 vs Southampton (H)

Sitting in 22nd place with just 9 points, Sheffield United face a daunting task against league leaders Coventry City on November 04, 2025 at 20:00. This recent defeat will likely force the Blades to reassess their approach, focusing on converting possession into goals and tightening up their defence to avoid further setbacks.

With 17 points, Derby County find themselves in 17th position and will take on Hull City, who are in 7th with 22 points, on November 04, 2025 at 19:45. This victory against Sheffield United will boost their confidence, and they will look to build on this performance by maintaining their clinical edge in front of goal against a strong Hull side.

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