Sunderland are in desperate need of a victory ahead of the international break after a dire run, but face a significant challenge here as an in-form Chelsea journey north to Wearside.
Match News and Current Form
Sunderland’s issues were laid bare on Thursday as they were booed off after a 2-0 UEFA Europa League defeat to Dinamo Zagreb, a result which compounded the misery of losing five of their last six Premier League matches (D1). That’s more defeats than the Black Cats suffered in their prior 14 combined (W6, D4, L4) and has left them bottom of the table, so the pressure on manager Régis Le Bris’ position has understandably intensified. He desperately needs a reprieve here, but Sunderland’s home form has been found wanting for some time now, as no side has failed to score in more Premier League home games in 2026 than their eight, including each of the last three (D1, L2).
Chelsea have had a free week to enjoy their 2-0 win over Manchester United last Saturday, with a third victory in four Premier League outings (L1) lifting them into the top four pre-round. Those three wins are as many as they managed in their prior 14 league outings (D2, L9), and with each victory coming by a 2+ goal margin, the Blues appear to be hitting their stride under Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard boasts a 100% win rate against Sunderland as a player (W5), and now targets an improvement in Chelsea’s away form as they’ve won just two of their last ten competitive road trips (D1, L7).
Head-to-Head History
Sunderland won both H2Hs last season by the same 2-1 scoreline, but haven’t beaten Chelsea in three successive league games since 2001. The Blues have won just one of their last five trips to the Stadium of Light in all competitions (D1, L3).
Hot Stats and Streaks
Sunderland’s home league matches this season are yet to produce a goal before half-time.
Sunderland’s last six games produced under 9.5 corners.
Chelsea have kept more clean sheets in their last three league games (2) than their 28 prior (1).
Chelsea have lost each of their last three Sunday-held away league matches by a 2-1 scoreline, including last season’s corresponding fixture.
Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Three of Trai Hume’s last four Sunderland goals were first-half match openers, including his strike in last season’s corresponding fixture. Pedro Neto laid on the assist for both of Chelsea’s H2H goals last term and has scored nine of his last 11 goals for the Blues on the road.
Sunderland’s Omar Alderete is suspended, but Nordi Mukiele is nearing a return. Chelsea are still without João Pedro, but could welcome back Emiliano Martínez and Jordan Henderson here.
For all the latest team news, please check the Flashscore match centre.
Betting Analysis
Sunderland’s slump and the visitors’ recent defensive improvements make Chelsea to win to nil the most attractive selection here.
Author: Ryan Fisher