This Sunday, Sunderland will face Aston Villa at the Stadium of Light in an important Matchday 5 fixture of the English Premier League. Here’s a look at what to expect from this match.
Match preview
Sunderland has emerged as a strong mid-table contender this season. Under manager Régis Le Bris, the team has shown great tactical discipline and has successfully utilized their home advantage, winning both of their matches at the Stadium of Light, with an overall score of 5-1. Their solid defensive work and balance on the pitch have made a notable impression.
Despite dropping points in their last match, Sunderland seems more mature than many teams expected to perform better. Their recent draw against Crystal Palace highlighted their resilience. The team is determined to secure points at home, especially against a struggling opponent.
Aston Villa, however, has not met expectations and currently lies in the relegation zone. Manager Unai Emery has struggled to get the attack working, as Villa has not scored in their last five league matches. Defensive issues, especially on the road, have added to their challenges, and their recent elimination from the League Cup has further dampened the mood.
With squad issues and waning confidence, Villa faces a difficult task to earn points away from home. They look predictable in attack, lacking creativity and goals. Only goalkeeper Martinez’s consistent performance is preventing larger defeats.
Probable lineups
- Sunderland: Ruufs, Mukiele, Alderete, Mandava, Ham, Xhaka, Sadiki, Diarra, Talbi, Adingra, Isidor
- Aston Villa: Martinez, Bogarde, Mings, Cash, Digne, Konsa, Buendia, McGinn, Tielemans, Watkins, Rogers
Match facts and head-to-head
- Aston Villa has not scored in five consecutive Premier League matches.
- Sunderland has won both of their home games this season with a total score of 5-1.
- In seven of Sunderland’s last ten matches, at least one team did not score.
Prediction
Sunderland has been a surprising contender this season, especially at home. They have convincingly beaten teams of Aston Villa’s level and currently appear to have the upper hand, given Villa’s ongoing struggles. With their issues in scoring, injuries, and poor away performance, the recommendation is to consider “Sunderland win or draw” at odds of 1.78.