On New Year’s Day 2026, Sheffield United host Leicester City at Bramall Lane in the EFL Championship. Kick-off is at 5:30 PM GMT (12:30 PM ET).

Both teams were relegated from the Premier League last season and entered the Championship with promotion hopes, but they’ve underperformed so far. This mid-table clash offers a chance to build momentum into the new year.

Sheffield United (managed by Chris Wilder, who returned earlier this season): Around 17th-19th place, recently improved with wins like a 2-1 away at Stoke City and a derby victory over Sheffield Wednesday. They’re pulling away from relegation but remain inconsistent.

Leicester City: Around 12th-14th place, coming off a 2-1 home win over Derby County. They’ve been inconsistent, struggling to adapt to the second tier

Both sides won their last match before this fixture, heading in with some confidence.
Head-to-Head
Earlier this season (November 29, 2025): Leicester City 2-3 Sheffield United – a high-scoring away win for the Blades, with Tom Cannon (former Leicester loanee) among the scorers.

Historically, Leicester have dominated recent encounters, winning many before that reversal. Leicester have won the last three league visits to Bramall Lane, but Sheffield United could complete a league double here for the first time in years.

Historically, Leicester have dominated recent encounters, winning many before that reversal. Leicester have won the last three league visits to Bramall Lane, but Sheffield United could complete a league double here for the first time in years.

Matches between these sides often feature goals – many recent games have gone over 2.5, and Leicester’s games especially have been high-scoring this season.
What to Expect
Predictions favor a Sheffield United win (around 55-57% probability in previews), thanks to home advantage at Bramall Lane and their attacking options like Tyrese Campbell, Tom Cannon, and Callum O’Hare. Leicester’s away form has been patchy, and they may miss key players (e.g., some reports mention absences like Patson Daka on international duty).

Predictions favor a Sheffield United win (around 55-57% probability in previews), thanks to home advantage at Bramall Lane and their attacking options like Tyrese Campbell, Tom Cannon, and Callum O’Hare. Leicester’s away form has been patchy, and they may miss key players (e.g., some reports mention absences like Patson Daka on international duty).

Expect a competitive, potentially open game with goals likely. A tight 2-1 or 2-0 home win seems a common forecast, helping Sheffield United climb further from danger and dent Leicester’s promotion push.
This could be an entertaining way to start 2026 in the Championship! If you’re watching, it’s likely on Sky Sports in the UK.