A look at the best matches on the opening weekend of the 2024/25 Championship

As teams return to the pitch with renewed vigour and ambition, fans can expect a showcase of football at its finest.
The opening fixtures are set to deliver excitement and drama. In this article, we delve into the standout matches that will set the tone for the season ahead, highlighting the key players to watch and the storylines that will unfold.
Join us as we explore the best matches on the opening weekend of the Championship.
Luton Town vs Burnley
A tale of relegation rivals vying for a coveted place back in the promised land of English football, Luton Town host Burnley at Kenilworth on August 12.
Both sides are favoured for a Championship top 6 finish, and they will be keen to get their respective campaigns off to a winning start.
The Clarets are preparing for the start of another new era under Scott Parker as Vincent Kompany departed for Bayern Munich after suffering the drop last season, while Rob Edwards’ side is likely to remain largely intact aside from the notable departure of Ross Barkley.
Expect a closely fought encounter in Bedfordshire, with very little to separate the two sides. This could be a fantastic insight into what could lie ahead for Luton and Burnley this campaign.
Leeds United vs Portsmouth
Leeds United had high hopes of returning to the Premier League last season, and Daniel Farke looked set to guide the Yorkshire side straight back to the top flight.
However, a late collapse resulted in them dropping out of the top two before ultimately losing the play-off final to Southampton.
Pressure is on Farke to deliver this campaign, and the Whites get their campaign underway by hosting Portsmouth at Elland Road on August 10.
Leeds will be the favourites in the Championship odds, but the newly-promoted Pompey could be dark horses this season and can’t be discounted.
Preston vs Sheffield United
Preston North End (PNE) and Sheffield United have a long and storied history, with the two sides clashing over 120 times in all competitions since the 1880s.
Both sides have opposing goals this campaign, with the Blades aiming to secure a place in at least the play-offs while PNE are expected to be dragged into a relegation battle despite finishing 10th last season.
While not direct rivals, there’s always an added layer to a Yorkshire vs Lancashire clash in any sport and this will be no different.
The recently relegated Sheffield United will be well-backed to win this Friday night kick-off on August 9, but Preston will be hoping to get off on the right foot after ending last season with a disappointing five consecutive defeats.
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The remaining fixtures are:
Blackburn Rovers vs Derby County – August 9
Cardiff City vs Sunderland – August 10
QPR vs West Brom – August 10
Middlesbrough vs Swansea City – August 10
Millwall vs Watford – August 10
Oxford United vs Norwich City – August 10
Stoke City vs Coventry City – August 10
Hully City vs Bristol City – August 10
Sheffield Wednesday vs Plymouth Argyle – August 11