Preston North End and Leeds United share a competitive history spanning decades, with Leeds historically dominating the fixture. Recent encounters have shown a shift in momentum, with Preston securing more wins since 2019.
The two Championship sides represent different ends of the table in the current 2024-2025 season, with Leeds pushing for promotion while Preston battles to maintain their second-tier status.
Historical head-to-head record
Leeds United holds the historical advantage in this fixture, winning 14 of their 33 meetings. This dominance reflects Leeds’ generally stronger position in English football throughout much of their shared history. Early encounters between the sides date back to the 1930s, with a goalless draw recorded in March 1932 during their League Division Two campaigns.
The FA Cup has also featured in their rivalry, with Preston claiming a notable 1-0 victory against Leeds in January 1934. These early matches established a competitive foundation that continues to this day, though the balance of power has shifted multiple times over the decades.
Recent form and current standings
The 2024-2025 season has highlighted the current gulf between the two sides:
- Leeds United sits 2nd in the Championship, pushing for automatic promotion
- Preston North End occupies 20th position, fighting to avoid relegation
- Leeds defeated Preston 2-1 at Elland Road in their most recent meeting on April 12, 2025
- Since 2019, Preston has won 3 of their encounters compared to Leeds’ single victory
This contrast in league position reflects the different trajectories of the clubs. Leeds, having recently spent time in the Premier League, brings greater resources and expectations to the Championship. Preston, meanwhile, represents the determined underdog, consistently punching above their financial weight to maintain Championship status.
The Elland Road factor
Leeds United’s home ground, Elland Road, has been a significant factor in this rivalry. With a capacity exceeding 37,000, it provides Leeds with one of the Championship’s most intimidating atmospheres. Their April 2025 victory over Preston demonstrated this home advantage, with Leeds securing a crucial 2-1 win in their promotion push.
Preston’s Deepdale stadium, while smaller, has its own proud history as one of football’s oldest professional venues, The contrasting home environments reflect the different scales of the two clubs, though Preston has shown they can overcome this disparity with their recent head-to-head record against Leeds.
Championship implications
The outcome of Preston vs Leeds United fixtures carries significant weight in the Championship landscape. For Leeds, matches against lower-positioned teams like Preston represent must-win opportunities in their promotion campaign. Any points dropped could prove costly in the tight race for automatic promotion spots.
Preston views these encounters differently. Taking points from promotion contenders like Leeds can provide crucial momentum in their relegation battle. Their recent record of three wins against Leeds since 2019 demonstrates their ability to rise to the occasion against stronger opposition.
The rivalry continues to evolve, with each ma tch writing a new chapter in their long-standing competitive history. As the 2024-2025 season progresses, both teams have everything to play for at opposite ends of the Championship table.