Stoke City vs Leeds United Preview
- Tournament: EFL Championship
- Date: Thursday, December 26
- Kick-off Time: 08:00 PM GMT
- Venue: Bet365 Stadium, Staffordshire.
A struggling Stoke City FC are set to host high-flying Leeds United next in the EFL Championship 2024-25. This is the 23rd English second-division league game for both clubs this season. This one’s a fair chance for the visitors to try their luck for the pole position, but for the hosts, it is just another game to rise somewhere in the middle of the table.
Stoke City FC have been dull throughout the season. Their form in the recent run hasn’t been great either. The side has lost four of their last five league games and would be desperate for full points here. The Narcís Pèlach coached side has 22 points from 22 games, standing at the 19th spot. At this point, even a draw against a top side like Leeds looks refreshing.
Leeds United have 45 points from 22 games, which is double of that of the hosts. They have been on a stunner form, and have been a side to reckon ever since the season began. The scenario suggests that not only a win but one with a big margin should ideally make them happy even after looking at this as an away game.
Stoke City Team News
Stoke City are reportedly having only one long-term injury concerning them, and it’s 21-year-old centre-back Bosun Lawal facing a back injury.
Leeds United Team News
Leeds United too have reportedly only one injury concerning them, aged 24 defensive midfielder Ilia Gruev, who has undergone knee surgery.
Also Read: Chelsea vs Fulham Lineups, Preview, Prediction and Team News | Premier League, December 26, 2024
Stoke City vs Leeds United Predicted Lineups
Stoke City predicted lineup:
Goalkeeper: Johansson
Defenders: Wilmot, Phillips, Gibson, Bocat
Midfielders: Moran, Seko; Manhoef, Junho, Koumas
Forward: Cannon
Leeds United Predicted Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Meslier
Defenders: Bogle, Rodon, Struijk, Byram
Midfielders: Tanaka, Rothwell; James, Aaronson, Ramazani
Forward: Piroe
Head-to-Head Record
Stoke City FC and Leeds United have met a total of 97 times to date. Stoke City FC have won 31 games, Leeds United have won 48 matches, while 18 of the matches ended in a draw. Records indicate that both sides have an intense rivalry, but Leeds United have an edge. The two sides first clashed in 1920.
| Scoreline | Competition | Date |
| Leeds United 1-0 Stoke City | EFL Championship | March 5, 2024 |
| Stoke City 1-0 Leeds United | EFL Championship | October 25, 2023 |
| Leeds United 5-0 Stoke City | EFL Championship | July 9, 2020 |
| Leeds United 2-2 Stoke City | League Cup | August 27, 2019 |
| Stoke City 0-3 Leeds United | EFL Championship | August 24, 2019 |
Key Players to Watch in Stoke City vs Leeds United
Jun-ho Bae (Stoke City)
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been one of the most consistent players Stoke City have this season. His world-class skills, especially his ability to speed up, and his dribbling skills have helped Stoke City forwards get catered with a number of chances.
So far he has delivered five assists, but the last one came in game 15. His versatile nature will be a big plus for the side against a tough team like Leeds, as he can operate from the forward, wings, and even below in the midfield. The South Koreans should be assuming a free role in this one.
Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United)
He scored one and assisted one against Oxford United in the last game, and has also been good with the contributions lately. This attacking midfielder is expected to have a good time against the faulty defense of Stoke City.
The former RB Salzburg playmaker is doing wonders in the Championship and has already netted six goals and provided two assists. Just like the previous game, he should be looking to score and assist in this one too. The United States player has a chance to shine, and he must thrive on it and see it as an option to return back to top-division football soon.
Stoke City vs Leeds United Prediction
Leeds United should be looking to win this game, they hail an exceptional form and hence would be high on confidence. They also have a good team. Stoke City looks dull, and despite playing at home would be low on morale for their poor form.
Predicted Score: Stoke City 1-3 Leeds United
Where to Watch Stoke City vs Leeds United Live?
| Country | Where to watch |
| USA | Paramount+ |
| UK | Sky Sports |
| India | Fancode |
FAQs
Q. When is Stoke City vs Leeds United?
The EFL Championship Stoke City vs Leeds United game will be played on Thursday, December 26 at the Bet365 Stadium, Staffordshire.
Q. Where to watch Stoke City vs Leeds United live for free?
The game Stoke City vs Leeds United can be watched on Fancode, Paramount+, and Sky Sports.
Q. What is the predicted score in Stoke City vs Leeds United?
The predicted score for Stoke City vs Leeds United is Stoke City 1-3 Leeds United.
Q. What is the head-to-head record for Stoke City vs Leeds United?
Stoke City FC and Leeds United have met a total of 97 times to date. Stoke City FC have won 31 games, Leeds United have won 48 matches, while 18 of the matches ended in a draw.