As the season progresses, Stoke City’s form continues to disappoint, leaving them in a precarious position in the EFL Championship. The team’s inability to secure wins has seen them slowly drift toward the relegation zone. With only 22 points from 22 matches, Stoke City finds itself dangerously close to the bottom three, currently held by Cardiff City at 18 points.
The team’s negative goal difference of -7 highlights their struggles, especially compared to their next opponent, Leeds United, whose +26 goal difference underlines their attacking dominance. Leeds has netted 41 goals, the highest in the league, while conceding just 15—showcasing a well-rounded and formidable squad.
READ MORE: Lynden Gooch Addresses Stoke City's Struggles After Sheffield Wednesday Defeat
A Mountain to Climb
Leeds United arrives at the bet365 Stadium as one of the strongest sides in the Championship. Sitting second with 45 points from 22 matches, Leeds is firmly in the hunt for automatic promotion to the Premier League. The gulf between the two teams is evident, with Leeds holding a commanding 23-point lead over Stoke City.
🔓 Open from 4pm
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) December 24, 2024
📺 Live scores on the big screen
🎸 Double Lively acoustic set
😋 Hog Roast, Loaded Donuts, Halloumi Fries and Esmie's Caribbean.
Join fellow Stokies in the Boothen Quarter on Boxing Day. pic.twitter.com/auzejf5PVa
This fixture is expected to be a tough test for Narcís Pelach’s men. Leeds’ recent form, combined with their firepower and defensive solidity, makes them the clear favorites. However, Stoke City will hope their home crowd can inspire a surprise result in what promises to be a high-stakes Boxing Day clash.
Can Stoke City Defy the Odds?
Despite the odds being heavily stacked against them, Stoke City’s players and fans will look to this game as an opportunity to reverse their fortunes. The team’s home form and resilience will be tested against a Leeds side brimming with confidence.
For Stoke City, securing a positive result could be the spark they desperately need to climb away from the relegation zone. Manager Narcís Pelach will need to deliver a tactical masterclass and inspire his squad to rise to the occasion.
The December 26th showdown is more than just another fixture—it’s a pivotal moment in Stoke City’s season. A victory could shift momentum, while a defeat could deepen their woes as the fight to avoid relegation intensifies.