Examine predictions, team news, and betting tips for the Championship play-off final between Sheffield United and Sunderland on Saturday, 24th May 2025 (3pm BST).
Tip 1
In a high stakes contest like the Championship play-off final, form, composure and goals often go out of the window.
That’s why two of the last three finals have seen just one goal, as Southampton defeated Leeds United by a single goal last season – two years on from Nottingham Forest’s 1-0 victory over Huddersfield Town.
The Blades have been defensively resilient this term, evidence by a couple of clean sheets in their two semi-final legs with the Robins, while Sunderland dug deep despite being under the cosh at the Stadium of Light against Coventry – a feat they might have to replicate in the capital on Saturday.
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Tip 2
Hamer’s 10 goals in 43 previous Championship appearances already provides immediate value to the 5/1 on offer with Sky Bet, but here’s why he’s worth backing to be the difference maker this weekend:
The Brazilian netted in United’s second 3-0 victory over Bristol City, meaning he has a goal contribution in four of his last six games for the Blades.
He’s bound to have Premier League suitors regardless of his current club’s status come Sunday, and this stage is another opportunity to flex his muscles – which he appears to be unfazed to do whenever needed.
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The Blades demolished Bristol City over two legs – 3-0 home and away – to book their trip to Wembley for a possible third return to the Premier League in the last seven seasons.
United are still without Ollie Arblaster, who has been out since November with a serious knee injury. Rhys Norrington-Davies is also not expected to feature on Saturday.
Sheffield United Predicted XI: Cooper; Choudhury, Ahmedhodzic, Robinson, Burrows; O’Hare, Peck, De Souza Costa, Hamer; Cannon, Moore.
Regis Le Bris’ men hard a much tougher time in their two semi-final legs, winning the tie in the second additional minute of injury time within extra time thanks to a Daniel Ballard header.
Jayden Danns and Ian Poveda are confirmed absentees, and maybe joined by Patrick Roberts, who struggled with a calf issue during the second leg against Coventry City.
Sunderland Predicted XI: Patterson; Hume, Ballard, O’Nien, Cirkin; Roberts, Neil, Bellingham, Le Fee; Isidor, Mayenda.
Last Five Meetings:
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