Sheffield United v Bristol City: Forecast, Odds and Bets

May 10, 2025

The second leg of the Championship Playoff Semi-Final sees Sheffield United v Bristol City on Monday, 12th May 2025. Kick-off is at 20:00 BST (UK) / 21:00 CEST (Italy, Germany, France, Spain) at Bramall Lane, Sheffield.

After a convincing 3-0 victory in the first leg at Ashton Gate, the Blades hold a commanding advantage. Bristol City face an uphill battle if they are to overturn the deficit and reach the final at Wembley.

How are both teams coming into this?

Sheffield United go into this tie with confidence after cruising to a 3-0 win in the first leg. Manager Paul Heckingbottom is likely to maintain a solid back four, despite missing young talents Ollie Arblaster and Rhys Norrington-Davies through injury.

Bristol City are boosted by their playoff appearance but arrive under pressure. Dean Holden’s squad are without Ayman Benarous, Cameron Pring, Luke McNally and Mark Sykes due to knocks, which could hamper their attacking options in this crucial fixture.

Our forecast

With a three-goal cushion to protect, Sheffield United can afford to control possession and limit Bristol’s chances. Expect the Blades to press high early on and force the visitors onto the back foot.

We predict a pragmatic display from United, who should see out progression with a 1-0 or 2-0 win on the night. Bristol City may score on the break, but it won’t be enough to bridge the gap.

Best odds

bet365: Sheffield United 1.50, Draw 4.50, Bristol City 7.00
William Hill: Sheffield United 1.52, Draw 4.60, Bristol City 6.80
Ladbrokes: Sheffield United 1.55, Draw 4.70, Bristol City 6.50

Possible lineups

Sheffield United are likely to stick with a 3-5-2 formation. Wes Foderingham is expected in goal with John Egan, Anel Ahmedhodžić and Chris Basham forming the back three. The midfield trio could be Oliver Norwood, Sander Berge and Iliman Ndiaye, supporting strikers Ben Osborn and Ramiz Zerrouki.

Bristol City may set up in a 4-2-3-1 to chase the tie. Max O’Leary will guard the net, while Zak Vyner, Chris Martin, Zak Vyner and Taylor Moore anchor the defence. In midfield, Alex Scott and Andi Weimann are key, with Pieros Sotiriou leading the line and Jay Dasilva, Andi Weimann and Han-Noah Massengo offering width.