Sports Desk:

Sheffield United were desperate for a win on Friday—three consecutive defeats had threatened to derail their promotion hopes, and the pressure was mounting. The Blades knew they couldn’t afford another slip-up, and Hamza Choudhury stepped up when his team needed him most.

Deployed at right-back in an unfamiliar role, the Bangladeshi midfielder delivered a composed and gritty performance as Sheffield United secured a vital 2-0 victory over Cardiff City, ending their losing streak and keeping their promotion dreams alive.

Hamza, more accustomed to playing in midfield, slotted into the defensive role with maturity beyond his years.

He made 4 tackles, 4 clearances, 2 interceptions, and blocked a shot, while not being dribbled past once throughout the 90 minutes. His 82% pass completion rate showed confidence on the ball, even in tight spaces and under pressure.

From the first whistle, Hamza was locked in—anticipating runs, closing down spaces, and contributing to the attack when needed.

Sheffield took the lead in the 33rd minute through Gustavo Hamer, who reacted quickly to a loose ball in the box. Hamer nearly doubled his tally from a free-kick that clipped the post, but United went into the break with a deserved lead—thanks in part to Hamza’s crucial defensive interventions.

That was the one moment in particular summed up Hamza’s night—and perhaps saved Sheffield from a nervous turnaround.

Just before halftime, with the Blades holding a slender 1-0 lead, Cardiff’s Alves burst forward into space, seemingly clear on goal. The crowd at Bramall Lane held its breath.

But out of nowhere, Hamza flew in—timing his sliding challenge to perfection. Not reckless, not desperate—just inch-perfect. The ball was cleanly won, the danger snuffed out, and the home fans erupted in applause. It wasn’t just a tackle. It was a statement—that even out of position, he could be counted on in the most critical moments.

In the second half, he received a yellow card for a challenge on O’Dowda, but didn’t let it affect his composure. He continued to offer defensive stability, making crucial clearances and even driving forward on occasion, helping stretch Cardiff’s backline.

Ben Brereton Diaz sealed the points late in the game with a powerful finish after Moore won the ball high up the pitch and forced a deflection. The 2-0 win came as a huge relief for Paul Heckingbottom’s side.

With Sheffield struggling for form in recent weeks, Hamza’s energy and work rate stood out. At times, he looked like a one-man press on the right side, constantly harrying the opposition and keeping United on the front foot.