Exploring the Clash: Sheffield Wednesday vs Southampton – Live stream, TV channel, kick-off time

Sheffield Wednesday vs Southampton: Opening Game of the Championship

Tale of Two Teams

The newly-promoted Sheffield Wednesday will face the relegated Southampton in the opening game of the 2023-24 Championship at Hillsborough on Friday. After an exciting 123rd-minute winner in the League One play-off final against a 10-man Barnsley, the Owls secured their promotion. Under the newly appointed manager Xisco Munoz, Sheffield Wednesday is eager to make their mark in the Championship.

On the other hand, Southampton will be led by a new boss, Russell Martin, as they begin their journey back to the Premier League after an 11-year stay. Relegated last season, the Saints are determined to bounce back and prove their worth in the Championship.

Kick-off Time and Venue

The EFL Championship match between Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton is scheduled for August 4, 2023, at the Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield, England. Kick-off time is set for 3 pm EDT (Eastern Daylight Time) in the United States. Fans eagerly anticipating the clash can tune in to watch the game live on ESPN or stream it online through ESPN+.

Team News and Squads

Sheffield Wednesday’s new signings Di’Shon Bernard, Bambo Diaby, Pol Valentin, Juan Delgado, and Ashley Fletcher are looking to make their mark at the club. However, players like Josh Windass and Will Smith are likely to retain their place in the attack. Manager Xisco Munoz is expected to field a 4-3-3 lineup with Will Vaulks, George Byers, and Barry Bannan in the middle. The center-back position is up for contention between Bernard, Diaby, and Dominic Iorfa.

Sheffield Wednesday Possible XI: Dawson; Palmer, Bernard, Iorfa, James; Vaulks, Byers, Bannan; Windass, Smith, Delgado.

As for Southampton, three players, Armel Bella-Kotchap, Lyanco, and Romeo Lavia, are unlikely to feature as they appear to be on their way out of the club. Jack Stephens is expected to start in defense alongside Shea Charles, who is on loan from Manchester City U21 squad. Skipper James Ward-Prowse is expected to stay, likely to be partnered with William Smallbone in midfield. Adam Armstrong and Che Adams are in contention for the starting spot up front.

Southampton Possible XI: Bazunu; Livramento, Stephens, Charles, Manning; Ward-Prowse, Smallbone; Tella, Alcaraz, Edozie; Adams.

Head-to-Head Record

Where to Watch

Football enthusiasts can catch the live action of the Sheffield Wednesday vs Southampton game on ESPN. The match will also be available to stream online live through ESPN+.

Conclusion

The opening game of the Championship between Sheffield Wednesday and Southampton promises to set the stage for an exciting season ahead. Both teams have their own motivations and aspirations as they compete in the highly competitive league. Football fans worldwide will be eagerly tuning in to see how the newly-promoted Owls fare against the relegated Saints. Whether it’s a thrilling victory or a hard-fought draw, this match will certainly provide an entertaining spectacle for fans and neutrals alike.