The anticipation is building as **Leicester City** prepares to take on **Sheffield Wednesday** in what promises to be an electrifying season opener. With the Foxes emerging as heavy favorites, the weight of expectation rests firmly on their shoulders, especially against a Owls side that finds itself in disarray.
Betting Tips & Predictions for Leicester vs Sheffield Wednesday
- **Under 2.5 goals @ +162 with Bet365**
- **Issahaku Fatawu to score or assist @ -175 with Bet365**
- **Barry Bannan to be booked @ +175 with Bet365**
*All odds courtesy of Bet365, correct at the time of publication and subject to change.*
A Classic Season Opener Awaits
As **Leicester City** enters this matchup, they are poised to capitalize on **Sheffield Wednesday’s** tumultuous offseason. The truth is, Leicester retains a wealth of talent, while the Owls are still grappling with their chaotic situation. **How many goals Leicester will score is truly the question?**
With new manager **Marti Cifuentes** at the helm, Leicester might still be finding their rhythm. It’s plausible they may not display their full capabilities in this opening encounter, even as they are likely to secure a win.
The visitors have faced significant losses this summer, with key players like **Josh Windass**, **Michael Smith**, and **Callum Paterson** heading for the exit. This leaves young talent **Bailey Cadamarteri** to lead the charge up front, adjusting to a new team dynamic after spending last season on loan.
Given the current state of affairs for Wednesday, the stage might be set for Leicester to not just win, but start the season with a flourish—albeit perhaps not overwhelming the Owls completely.
First Bet: Leicester City vs Sheffield Wednesday – Under 2.5 Goals @ +162 with Bet365
Fatawu: The Rising Star
Among the myriad of players at Cifuentes’ disposal, **Issahaku Fatawu** stands out as a potential game-changer. The **Ghanaian winger** has a notable track record against Wednesday, having notched goals in both previous encounters with the Owls. His form in pre-season has been promising, leaving little doubt about his capability to wreak havoc on the defense.
With a recent goal against **Fiorentina** during pre-season, Fatawu is hungry to make his mark when competitive action resumes. Wednesday’s current lack of preparation will likely play into his hands, as he aims to exploit their vulnerabilities. The combination of his pace and skill could spell trouble for the visitors as they struggle to find their footing.
- **Second Bet: Issahaku Fatawu to Score or Assist @ -175 with Bet365**
Wednesday’s Midfield General: Barry Bannan
One silver lining in **Sheffield Wednesday’s** cloudy summer has been the re-signing of **Barry Bannan**, their captain. Despite speculation surrounding his future, Bannan’s commitment to remain at **Hillsborough** has been a morale boost for the team.
The seasoned Scottish midfielder is expected to command the midfield, bringing both experience and tenacity. As someone who thrives under pressure, he could resort to a more physical approach to energize his side and fight against Leicester’s advances. His history of disciplinary actions includes 87 career bookings, making it likely that he could see yellow in this match.
- **Third Bet: Barry Bannan to be Booked @ +175 with Bet365**
Analysis: Team Form Heading into the Match
Leicester City’s journey this summer has certainly been uneasy, given the lengthy managerial uncertainty. However, under the experienced Cifuentes, they boast a formidable squad eager to make an impact and start their promotion campaign on a high note.
In stark contrast, Wednesday is grappling with significant issues, including a transfer embargo and unpaid wages. The under-pressure manager **Henrik Pedersen** faces the challenge of unifying a fractured squad with minimal preseason preparation, leaving them as early favorites for relegation.
Probable Lineups for Leicester City vs Sheffield Wednesday
Leicester City Expected Lineup: Stolarczyk, Justin, Okoli, Nelson, Kristiansen, Skipp, Soumare, Fatawu, Ayew, Mavididi, Daka
Sheffield Wednesday Expected Lineup: Charles, Valery, Iorfa, Palmer, Lowe, Bannan, Chalobah, Lowe, Ugbo, Kobacki, Cadamarteri
As we approach this encounter, all eyes will be on Leicester to see if they can harness their talent and take full advantage of Wednesday’s turmoil. **Will the Foxes soar, or will the Owls surprise?** Tune in to find out!
