Sheffield United vs. Sunderland Tips and Odds – 24/05/2025

• Fixture: Sheffield United vs Sunderland (Championship Play-Off Final)
• Date: Saturday, 24 May 2025
• Venue: Wembley Stadium, London

Match Preview

The 2024/25 EFL Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley Stadium brings together two of England’s most storied clubs, Sheffield United and Sunderland, for what is often called “the richest game in football”. Both sides are vying for a return to the Premier League, with the winner set to pocket a windfall potentially exceeding £170 million in broadcast and commercial revenue. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with both clubs receiving over 35,000 tickets each and their passionate fanbases set to fill the iconic stadium.

Sheffield United arrive at Wembley in formidable form and with a sense of unfinished business. After being relegated from the Premier League last season, the Blades finished third in the Championship and powered through the play-off semi-finals, demolishing Bristol City 6-0 on aggregate with back-to-back 3-0 wins. Chris Wilder’s side has shown defensive solidity and attacking flair, keeping three clean sheets in their last four matches and conceding just five goals in their last six. However, the club’s play-off history is a psychological hurdle: they have lost all nine of their previous play-off campaigns and failed to score in four finals.

Sunderland’s journey to Wembley has been far more dramatic. The Black Cats finished fourth, but limped into the play-offs with just one win in their last seven league games and a worrying defensive record, conceding first in four of their last five outings. Their semi-final against Coventry City was a nail-biter, only settled by Daniel Ballard’s header deep into extra time. Under head coach Régis Le Bris, Sunderland have shown resilience but also inconsistency, and their defensive frailties could be a concern against United’s potent attack.

Injuries and suspensions could play a significant role. This could test the Blades’ depth, especially in defense. Sunderland have also faced selection headaches, with three key players—Jobe Bellingham, Trai Hume, and Patrick Roberts—recently serving suspensions, though their status for the final should be monitored. Defensive leader Chris Mepham and experienced midfielder Alan Browne have been bright spots for the Black Cats, but the squad’s overall form remains patchy.

Key Players

• Sheffield United:
  • Gustavo Hamer: The creative midfielder has been instrumental in United’s attacking play, contributing goals and assists throughout the season.
  • Anel Ahmedhodzic: The commanding centre-back anchors a defense that has kept three clean sheets in the last four matches.
  • Kieffer Moore: His aerial presence and recent goals have given the Blades a crucial edge in knockout football.
• Sunderland:
  • Daniel Ballard: The semi-final hero, Ballard’s defensive leadership and threat from set-pieces could be decisive.
  • Chris Mepham: The Welsh international has brought stability to Sunderland’s back line since his arrival.

Prediction

Sheffield United enter the final as favourites, given their superior form, stronger defensive record, and more convincing semi-final performance. While Sunderland have shown grit and the ability to rise to the occasion, their recent run of results and defensive lapses suggest they may struggle to contain the Blades’ attack. Expect a tense, hard-fought contest, but United’s momentum and experience should see them edge it—likely by a narrow margin.

Predicted Score: Sheffield United 2-1 Sunderland

Betting Markets & Odds

Odds are indicative and may vary. Please check the link for the latest prices.

Wembley awaits a blockbuster showdown. Will Sheffield United finally break their play-off curse, or can Sunderland complete a fairytale return to the Premier League? All will be decided in one of football’s most dramatic fixtures.