Preston vs Leeds Predictions

Preston vs Leeds predictions ahead of this Championship affair on Tuesday. Leeds United visit Preston North End on Boxing Day, aiming to continue their strong form following a convincing win against Ipswich Town last weekend. Read on for our match preview and free betting tips.

Championship | Gameweek 24 – Dec 26, 2023 at 12.30pm UK at Deepdale

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Preston vs Leeds Predictions

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Leeds United’s Attacking Flair to Test Preston’s Fragile Defence in Championship Showdown

In the upcoming Boxing Day clash, Leeds United and Preston North End face off in a fixture that could well define their seasons in the Championship. Leeds, sitting comfortably in third, are riding high after a resounding victory over Ipswich Town, while Preston, languishing in 13th, are reeling from back-to-back defeats. This game not only pits two teams with differing fortunes against each other but also showcases contrasting styles and approaches to the game.

Leeds United’s Ascendancy: The Farke Effect

Under Daniel Farke, Leeds United have displayed a brand of football that is both attractive and effective. Their recent demolition of Ipswich Town was a masterclass in offensive play. Farke’s philosophy hinges on high pressing, quick transitions, and fluid attacking movements, and it’s working wonders. The likes of Crysencio Summerville and Daniel James have been pivotal in this approach, exploiting spaces with their pace and precision. Defensively, they have shown resilience, but it’s their offensive prowess that has caught the eye.

Leeds’ ability to control games through possession, coupled with their threat on the counter, makes them a formidable opponent. Their midfield, orchestrated by the likes of Ethan Ampadu and Glen Kamara, has been the engine room, providing both defensive cover and creative impetus.

Preston North End’s Struggles: Defensive Woes and Offensive Inconsistency

Contrastingly, Ryan Lowe’s Preston has struggled for consistency. Their defence, often porous and disorganised, has been their Achilles’ heel. Conceding five goals against Watford highlighted their vulnerabilities at the back. Offensively, despite the presence of players like Liam Millar and Milutin Osmajic, they’ve lacked the cutting edge, often struggling to convert chances.

Their midfield hasn’t been able to exert control over games, leading to them being overrun, especially against teams that press high. Lowe needs to address these issues swiftly if Preston is to turn their season around.

Tactical Matchup and Key Duels

The match is likely to be decided in midfield, where Leeds’ control and passing ability will clash with Preston’s need to disrupt and counter. Key battles will include Leeds’ wide players against Preston’s fullbacks and the contest in the central areas, where Leeds’ technical superiority might prove too much for Preston.

Managerial Impact and Controversial Opinions

Daniel Farke’s impact at Leeds has been profound. His tactical acumen has transformed Leeds into a potent force, a stark contrast to Preston’s struggles under Ryan Lowe. Lowe, who once seemed to have a promising managerial career, now faces heavy criticism for his team’s lacklustre performances. His inability to fix the defensive issues and find a consistent attacking formula has been disappointing. The question remains: Is Lowe the right man to steer Preston away from mediocrity?

Expected Goals Analysis and Match Dynamics

Leeds’ expected goals average signifies their attacking threat, which should see them create numerous chances against Preston. Preston’s lower xG average indicates their struggle to create high-quality chances, a worrying sign against a team like Leeds.

Predictions and Best Bets

1. Match Outcome: Leeds to Win
   • Leeds United, under Daniel Farke, have been in formidable form, particularly in their recent games. Their comprehensive victory over Ipswich Town is a testament to their attacking prowess and tactical discipline.
   • Preston North End, conversely, have been struggling, especially in defence. They have been inconsistent and vulnerable, which could be exploited by Leeds’ dynamic attack.
   • Leeds’ superior midfield control, led by players like Ethan Ampadu and Glen Kamara, is likely to dominate the central areas, giving them an edge in controlling the game and creating scoring opportunities.
2. Correct Score Prediction: Preston 1 – Leeds 2
   • This scoreline reflects the attacking capabilities of Leeds and the defensive frailties of Preston. Leeds’ aggressive and high-pressing style is likely to lead to goal-scoring chances.
   • Preston, despite their struggles, have the potential to find the net, possibly capitalising on a moment of Leeds’ defensive lapse. However, their inconsistency in attack means they are unlikely to score multiple goals.
   • Leeds, with their ability to maintain sustained pressure and create chances, are expected to find the back of the net twice, making the most of Preston’s defensive gaps.
3. Goalscorer Prediction: Crysencio Summerville to Score
   • Summerville has been a standout performer for Leeds this season, showcasing his goal-scoring ability and proving to be a constant threat in the attacking third.
   • Given Preston’s defensive woes, Summerville’s pace, skill, and finishing ability make him a prime candidate to exploit their backline and add to his goal tally.
   • His recent form and confidence in front of goal suggest that he is likely to be on the scoresheet in this fixture.
4. Corner Prediction: Leeds to Win More Corners
   • Leeds’ attacking style of play, which involves pushing players forward and creating width, typically results in a higher number of corner opportunities.
   • With Leeds expected to dominate possession and press high up the pitch, they are likely to force Preston into conceding corners.
   • Preston’s defensive approach, likely focusing on containing Leeds’ attacks, might see them clear balls over the line more often, leading to corner kicks for Leeds.

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