Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United meet for the first time in five years this weekend, and the game is almost too close to call.
While the Blades have enjoyed the bragging rights of the city in recent years thanks to their time in the Premier League, Sheffield Wednesday fans have had to endure a couple of seasons in League One and a relegation scrap in the Championship.
The gap between the two teams has finally been closed, and the game at Bramall Lane on Sunday afternoon will be a thrilling test for both sides, and will act as a real marker as to how much progress Danny Rohl has made during his time in S6.
Rohl has highlighted the derby as a ‘special game’ for his team, but it is one the Owls will have to dig deep in if they are to get a positive result.
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Sheffield Wednesday could surprise people in Steel City derby
Derby matches are near-impossible to predict, as the form book goes out of the window, and it all comes down to which side wants it more.
But, journalist Dom Howson has offered his verdict on the upcoming clash via X, and he thinks Wednesday could surprise people on Sunday.
He tweeted: “Sheffield United are big favourites to win on Sunday. Without the points deduction, they would be joint top. United have got Premier League players and Chris Wilder has managed in Steel City derbies before.
“But if Sheffield Wednesday execute their game plan well, they can get something.”
Danny Rohl’s game plan is key to beating Sheffield United
Sheffield United are flying high in the Championship, but they are certainly not unbeatable. Indeed, they very nearly slipped up against a well-organised Bristol City in midweek, and had to be saved by two very late goals.
Danny Rohl’s tactical decisions will be pivotal to Sheffield Wednesday’s chances of success on Sunday. If the German sticks with his three at the back and keeps the defensive unit compact, United will likely find themselves frustrated.
| Team | Danny Rohl vs top six teams in Championship (2024/25) |
|---|---|
| Sunderland | Lost 4-0 (A) |
| Leeds United | Lost 2-0 (H) |
| Burnley | Lost 2-0 (H) |
| Millwall | Lost 3-0 (A) |
| Watford | Lost 6-2 (H) |
| Sheffield United | TBC |
A key battle will be in the middle of the park, too, where Wednesday cannot let the likes of Vinicius Souza run the show. With Barry Bannan, Shea Charles, and Svante Ingelsson packing the midfield, the Owls could find themselves turning over possession fairly regularly and opening the Blades up.
Meanwhile, Lee Bullen highlighted the experience of Bannan, Liam Palmer, and Dominic Iorfa as being ‘crucial’ to preparations behind the scenes and in setting the tone on the pitch.