Derby vs Leeds Prediction & Betting Tips (11 January)

Derby County enter this FA Cup tie with a mixture of urgency and quiet optimism, even as their recent form has been inconsistent. Over the past two months, the club has dealt with fluctuating league performances, including defeats to Leicester City and Middlesbrough, while also securing important wins such as their victory over Blackburn Rovers and Swansea City. These results reflect a side still searching for rhythm but capable of producing competitive stretches when momentum aligns. With the FA Cup offering a fresh stage, Derby will hope that returning to Pride Park provides the stability they have lacked in league play. tntsports.co.uk

Leeds United, meanwhile, approach the fixture with a stronger recent record and a sense of continuity that has served them well. Their Championship victories over Derby in December 2024 still linger as reminders of their tactical edge in this matchup, and their squad depth continues to be a defining advantage. Over the past two months, Leeds have maintained a competitive tempo, balancing league commitments with preparations for this FA Cup campaign. Their supporters will expect a composed performance, especially given their favorable head‑to‑head record against Derby in recent seasons. ESPN+1

The broader narrative surrounding this clash has been shaped by FA Cup developments announced in December, including ticketing updates and fixture confirmations that heightened anticipation for this third‑round meeting. Both clubs have been featured in recent FA Cup communications, reinforcing the significance of this encounter for supporters eager to see how each side adapts to knockout‑stage demands. With Derby hosting at Pride Park, the atmosphere is expected to be intense, and both teams will be aware that early control of midfield tempo could determine the match’s overall character. Leeds United

As the match approaches, the tactical expectations lean toward a cautious, physically contested affair, especially given Derby’s need for defensive discipline and Leeds’ tendency to manage matches methodically when playing away. Both sides have shown stretches of low‑scoring, tightly controlled football in recent weeks, suggesting that neither will be eager to overcommit early. With that in mind, and considering the balance of form and the nature of recent performances, the most reasonable prediction for this FA Cup meeting is a 0–0 correct score, a result that reflects the likely tension and measured approach from both teams.

• Summary: Derby County is going head to head with Leeds United starting on 11 Jan 2026 at 12:00 UTC . The match is a part of the FA Cup .
• Derby Feedinco Rating: 6.75
• Leeds Feedinco Rating: 6.73