As the Premier League awaits its final entrant, the Championship playoffs heat up with Norwich City hosting Leeds United at Carrow Road on May 12, 2024.
This first-leg encounter promises gripping action as both teams vie for a coveted promotion spot.
Match Preview
This marks the first leg of the playoff semi-final. Norwich City finished 6th in the Championship with 73 points, while Leeds United secured 3rd place with 90 points.
Norwich City enters the match after a 1-0 loss at Birmingham City on the final day of the regular season. The only goal of the match came in the 55th minute.
This defeat means Norwich City has won only one of their last five matches in the Championship.
They have also drawn against Bristol City and Swansea City at home, and Sheffield Wednesday away.
Norwich City boasts an impressive home record, remaining unbeaten in their last 15 home Championship matches.
They have won 8 of their last 10 Championship games, though they have been held to draws in their last two home fixtures.
Both teams have scored in 3 of their 4 most recent home Championship matches.
Leeds United arrives at Carrow Road following a 2-1 defeat at home to Southampton on the final day of the Championship season.
Southampton took the lead in the 18th minute, but Leeds United quickly equalized in the 21st minute. However, Southampton secured their victory with a goal in the 35th minute.
This loss means Leeds United has won only one of their last six Championship fixtures.
They have suffered defeats against Coventry City and Queens Park Rangers away, as well as Blackburn Rovers at home.
Their sole win came against Middlesborough away, with a draw at home against Sunderland.
Leeds United has won just one of their last four away Championship games.
However, they have lost only two of their last 10 Championship matches on the road, with over 2.5 goals scored in each of their four most recent away trips.
Team News & Updates:
Norwich City will be without Ashley Barnes, Liam Gibbs, and Onel Hernandez due to injury.
Leeds United will be missing Darko Gyabi, Daniel James, and Pascal Struijk due to injury.
Prediction & Analysis:
Despite Leeds United’s higher position in the table, Norwich City’s home advantage and strong record make them the favorites for this encounter.
Expect a closely contested match with both teams finding the back of the net, but ultimately, Norwich City is predicted to secure a narrow victory.
- Norwich City 2-1 Leeds United
