Leeds United will kick off their 2024/25 Championship campaign with a home match against Portsmouth at Elland Road on Saturday. After suffering a heartbreaking loss in the playoffs last season, Leeds will be under immense pressure to perform this time around. Despite their struggles towards the end of the previous campaign, Leeds managed to end their preseason preparations on a positive note with a 2-1 victory over Valencia. They will be looking to build on that performance and make a statement in front of their home fans. However, Leeds will need to find some stability at Elland Road, as they only managed two wins in their final eight home matches last season.
Leeds have lost some key players this summer, including Crysencio Summerville, Glen Kamara, and Archie Gray. But they have managed to hold on to their attacking talisman Georginio Rutter, who will lead the line for them. Joe Rodon, who made his move from Tottenham permanent this summer, will start in defense alongside captain Pascal Struijk, who will be making his first start of the year.
On the other hand, Portsmouth had a fantastic season in League One last year, earning promotion to the Championship. They will be looking to continue their success from last season and make an impact in their first Championship appearance in over a decade. Portsmouth were unbeaten in their final 10 away matches in League One last season, and they will provide a tough challenge for Leeds.
Portsmouth have made some new signings, including Josh Murphy from Norwich and Jordan Williams from Barnsley. However, they will be without their attacking talisman Colby Bishop, who underwent heart surgery last month. Abu Kamara could be given the opportunity to lead the line for Portsmouth.
When Leeds and Portsmouth last met in the Championship in 2012, they played out a goalless draw. Leeds had a disappointing end to last season, winning only two of their final nine matches. Similarly, they struggled at home, winning just two of their last eight matches at Elland Road. On the other hand, Portsmouth were unbeaten in their final 10 away matches in League One last season, but they only kept one clean sheet in their last seven matches.
In conclusion, Leeds will be eager to bounce back from their playoff heartbreak and start the new season on a positive note. While Portsmouth will be riding high on their promotion, we predict a home victory for Leeds with under 4.5 goals scored in the match. The best odds for this outcome can be found at Dachbet.
