Preston vs Leeds Predictions

Preston vs Leeds predictions ahead of this Championship clash. Leeds United visit Preston North End at Deepdale this weekend, aiming to maintain momentum and challenge Sheffield United at the top of the Championship table. Read on for our match preview and free betting tips.

Championship | Dec 14, 2024 at 12.30pm UK at Deepdale

Preston vs Leeds Predictions

Can Preston Dent Leeds’ Promotion Push in a Key Championship Clash?

• Leeds’ attacking dominance: Leeds are the league’s top scorers with 36 goals in just 20 matches, underlining their attacking threat.
• Preston’s home resilience: Preston have lost just once in their last nine home games, proving difficult to beat at Deepdale.
• Leeds’ travel struggles: Leeds have won only one of their last six away games, a worrying trend they must address to maintain promotion hopes.

Our Tips

The Championship provides yet another thrilling encounter this weekend as Leeds United head to Deepdale to take on Preston North End. Leeds, breathing down the necks of league leaders Sheffield United, have an opportunity to briefly leapfrog the Blades with a victory. However, their inconsistent performances on the road make this clash anything but straightforward. Preston, under the stewardship of Paul Heckingbottom, are showing signs of resilience and will be buoyed by their recent 2-0 triumph over Cardiff.

For Leeds, a victory would not only boost their promotion hopes but also quell lingering doubts over their ability to grind out results away from Elland Road. Meanwhile, Preston are seeking stability, aiming to climb the table and distance themselves from the relegation battle. With contrasting ambitions but plenty on the line for both sides, this promises to be a fascinating encounter in the heart of Lancashire.

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Best Bet: Leeds to Win and Both Teams to Score

Backing Leeds to secure a win while conceding appears to be the most compelling wager for this match. Despite their shaky away form, Leeds possess a potent attack, boasting a league-best 36 goals in 20 games. Their capacity to create chances and convert them has been unparalleled this season, particularly against sides in the bottom half. While Preston have struggled offensively—netting just 20 goals in 20 matches—they showed an improved cutting edge against Cardiff and are likely to test a Leeds defence that has been far from impenetrable on the road.

Leeds’ firepower is epitomised by their attacking quartet, who have consistently delivered both at home and in challenging away fixtures. However, their vulnerability at the back, compounded by recent injuries to key defensive players, suggests that Preston will have opportunities to capitalise. Milutin Osmajic, fresh from his goal against Cardiff, could be a nuisance, even if he starts from the bench.

Preston’s defensive record at Deepdale has been respectable, losing just once in nine matches since the opening weekend. However, their tendency to concede in key moments—particularly late in games—will be a concern. Leeds, who thrive in high-pressure situations, could exploit this.

BettingTips4You.com expert Graham Hartshorn summarises the outlook:
“Leeds are a team driven by attacking momentum, and while their defence can be fragile, their ability to outscore opponents shines through. This match has all the ingredients for both teams to find the net, but Leeds’ superior quality should see them edge it.”

Preston’s grit and Leeds’ propensity for lapses at the back create an ideal scenario for a both-teams-to-score market. However, the away side’s overwhelming attacking depth and hunger for promotion points point towards them prevailing in an end-to-end contest.als for a top-four push. With Forest struggling against sides with offensive depth, Aston Villa seem well-positioned to take all three points.

Correct Score Prediction: Preston North End 1-2 Leeds United

Aligning with the rationale of Leeds winning while conceding, a 2-1 scoreline feels highly plausible. Leeds have shown they can eke out narrow victories even in difficult environments, particularly when their backs are against the wall. Preston, while disciplined defensively at home, have struggled to maintain clean sheets, conceding in four of their last five matches at Deepdale.

Preston’s recent performances suggest they have enough about them to score, but Leeds’ attacking efficiency should tip the scales. Leeds will likely dominate possession, carving out opportunities through their midfield’s creativity and clinical finishing. On the other hand, Preston could strike through a set piece or a counter-attack, capitalising on Leeds’ defensive frailties.

Preston’s manager Paul Heckingbottom will hope his side’s midweek win serves as a springboard. However, Leeds’ ambition and firepower make them favourites to emerge victorious in a tightly contested affair.

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