Although feeling low currently, Southampton could find a promising chance on the final day against Leeds.
Following their devastating 5-0 loss against Leicester City on Tuesday night, Southampton is undoubtedly feeling disheartened. Entering the match at the King Power Stadium, they had hoped to rebound from their defeat to Cardiff City and disrupt Leicester’s push for the title. However, their performance in the Midlands was nothing short of a collapse, conceding five goals and dealing a blow to their morale as they approach the final two games of the season.
With automatic promotion now appearing highly improbable, Southampton must redirect their focus towards the playoffs. Despite facing the departure of key players like Romeo Lavia and the stalwart James Ward-Prowse last summer, the team still possesses the talent necessary to secure a return to the Premier League at the first opportunity. While the road ahead may be challenging, there remains optimism within the club about their chances of reaching Wembley and clinching playoff victory.
Nevertheless, the mood within Russell Martin’s squad is undoubtedly somber at present. Their recent 5-0 defeat at Sunderland in September would have sparked a determination to avoid such humiliation again this season. Yet, despite their resolve, Southampton found themselves embarrassed on live television, highlighting the competitive parity within the Championship this season, where surprises can often arise despite perceived differences in quality between teams.
What lies ahead for Southampton next.
Next on the agenda, Southampton will host Stoke City, a match that should favor them considering Stoke’s inconsistent performance throughout the season. Following that, their final fixture will take them to Elland Road to take on Leeds United, a formidable challenge given Leeds’ strong home record this season.
Under Daniel Farke, Leeds has only suffered one home defeat in the league during the 2023/24 campaign, which occurred against Blackburn Rovers earlier this month. One could easily make the case that Leeds deserved a victory in that match, if not a draw.
The upcoming match against Leeds United could offer Southampton significant incentive.
With Leeds United and Ipswich Town separated by just one point at this stage, and Ipswich having a game in hand, the race for promotion could extend to the last day of the season.
Leeds are expected to be strong favorites against Queens Park Rangers on the penultimate day, adding pressure on Kieran McKenna’s team. However, if Ipswich can secure victories in their next two matches, Leeds will be compelled to defeat Southampton on the final day, a challenging task even considering their strong home record under Farke.
While Leeds boasts an impressive home record, their recent loss to Blackburn at Elland Road demonstrates their vulnerability. Consequently, Southampton are unlikely to face immense pressure on the final day. Although automatic promotion seems improbable, they are guaranteed to finish no lower than fourth, ensuring a home advantage in the second leg of the playoff semifinals.
This presents Martin’s team with the chance to play with liberation and showcase their abilities to the fullest extent, potentially optimizing their performance levels.
Should they manage to overcome Leeds on the final day, a feat within reach despite recent setbacks, it could disrupt Leeds’ top-two aspirations and grant Southampton a psychological advantage entering the playoffs.
While a playoff semi-final against Leeds is not on the cards, a potential rematch in the final remains a possibility. With the memory of their recent victory over Leeds fresh, Southampton could instill a sense of apprehension in their opponents ahead of a potential showdown at Wembley.
Moreover, the neutral ground of Wembley would offer Martin’s side an additional morale boost, enhancing their chances further.
Consequently, the outcome of this final-day encounter in West Yorkshire could significantly influence the playoff promotion race.