Bristol City, Sheffield United Face Off in Play-Off Semi-Final

Bristol City and Sheffield United will face off in the first leg of the Championship play-off semi-final, with City aiming for a return to the top flight after 45 years and United seeking promotion after narrowly missing out on automatic qualification despite accumulating 90 points. Bristol City, seen as underdogs, secured their play-off spot after a late-season unbeaten run at home, while Sheffield United, who finished third, experienced a disappointing end to their campaign. Both teams have a history of play-off struggles, with neither having won promotion via this route before. Sheffield United have a strong recent record at Ashton Gate, but Bristol City are currently unbeaten in eight home league games. Team news includes injury concerns for both sides, with City hoping for the return of wing-back Cameron Pring and United likely missing right-back Femi Seriki. Managers Liam Manning and Chris Wilder have emphasized resilience and the opportunity to make history as they prepare their squads for a closely contested tie.