Leeds United will kick off their 2023/24 Championship campaign with a high-profile clash against Portsmouth at Elland Road.
The Whites, narrowly missing out on automatic promotion last season, will be eager to secure early three points as they focus on making a return to the Premier League. Their opponents, Portsmouth, are back in the Championship for the first time in twelve years after a victorious League One campaign.
The Fratton Park fans will be hoping for a positive start to life back in the second tier as they face a stern test against a promotion favourite. The two sides last met in 2012, a goalless draw, so this match comes with a long history.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times, and the latest lineup news.
MORE: How to watch EFL Championship in the UK this season
Leeds vs. Portsmouth live stream, TV Channel
- TV channel: —
- Live stream: Sky Sports+
The game will not be available to watch on TV in the United Kingdom (UK) but the fans stream the match live on Sky Sports’ new streaming service – Sky Sports+. There would not be additional charges required for the existing Sky customers.
What time does Leeds vs. Portsmouth kick off?
| Date | Saturday, August 10 |
| Kick-off Time | 12:30 p.m. BST |
| Venue | Elland Road |
| Location | Leeds, England |
This Championship clash takes place at Elland Road in Leeds, England, and kicks off on Saturday, August 10 at 12:30 p.m. local time (BST).
Leeds vs. Portsmouth lineups, team news
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke faces a selection dilemma with Patrick Bamford‘s fitness in doubt. The striker, who endured a frustrating end to the previous campaign due to a knee injury, has been carefully managed during pre-season.
If Bamford fails to recover in time, young forward Mateo Joseph could be handed his first league start for the club. The Spaniard impressed in limited opportunities last season and is eager to make his mark. Georginio Rutter is expected to provide support from an attacking midfield role.
Elsewhere in the team, Jayden Bogle has overcome a minor knock and is set to start at right-back. The remainder of the back five is likely to remain unchanged, with Illan Meslier in goal, flanked by Junior Firpo, Pascal Struijk, and Joe Rodon.
Leeds predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Meslier (GK) — Bogle, Struijk, Rondon, Firpo — Ampadu, Gruev —Rutter, Gnonto, James — Joseph.
Injured: N/A
Suspended: N/A
Portsmouth will be without their leading scorer from last season, Colby Bishop, as he undergoes heart surgery, representing a significant blow to the newly promoted side’s attacking options. Kusini Yengi is expected to make his presence in the forward role.
Defensive concerns are also prominent for manager John Mousinho. The departure of Sean Raggett has weakened the backline, while Tom McIntyre remains sidelined through injury. Conor Shaughnessy, a former Leeds player, is likely to partner with Ryley Towler in central defence.
The absence of key loan players Abu Kamara and Alex Robertson further adds to Portsmouth’s difficulties.
Portsmouth predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Norris — Swanson, Shaughnessy, Williams, Ogilvie — Lowery, Moxon, Murphy — Silvera, Lane, Yengi.
Injured: N/A
Suspended: N/A
Leeds vs. Portsmouth prediction
- Score Prediction: Leeds United 3-1 Portsmouth
Leeds United are widely expected to secure a comfortable victory when they host Portsmouth in the Championship opener. The Yorkshire side, with their superior talent and recent dominance in the fixture, are clear favourites.
The attacking prowess of Georginio Rutter and Joel Piroe is anticipated to pose a significant threat to Portsmouth’s defence. Conversely, the visitors are facing defensive challenges due to injuries and departures, which could exacerbate their difficulties against a potent Leeds attack.
While Portsmouth are capable of causing upsets, Leeds’ overall quality suggests a home victory is the most likely outcome.