Sunderland vs Sheffield United Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds

The Black Cats are in the chase to reduce their points gap from teams above them.

Sunderland will hope to begin 2025 on the right note as they host promotion favourites Sheffield United on New Year’s Day. The Black Cats have given a great account of themselves in comparison to last season and have broken into the top four this season. They have been inevitable at home and are yet to lose a game. With 44 points in 24 games, they have maintained a consistent run of form this season.

A huge New Year’s Day clash comes next on Wearside 🏡👊 pic.twitter.com/BcYSEIcta4

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) December 30, 2024

Sheffield United on the other hand have been one of the title contenders this season. They have been a force to reckon with in the EFL Championship and have put together a series of good performances. However, they have dropped points in their last few outings, including a 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion. The Blades have been incredible on the road having picked up six wins.

Kick Off

Thursday, January 2, 2025, 1:30 AM IST

Venue: Stadium of Light

Form

Sunderland (in all competitions): L-D-W-W-D

Sheffield United (in all competitions): D-L-W-W-W

Players to watch 

Jobe Bellingham (Sunderland)

Jobe Bellingham has been an influential figure for Sunderland this season. He has been dropping in inspiring performances in the middle of the park and has earned a lot of praise in the process. His vision, creativity and ball distribution make him one of the finest playmakers in the Championship. With four goals and three assists, Bellingham has racked up the most number of goal contributions for his side.

Kieffer Moore (Sheffield United)

Sheffield United will look upon their man in form Kieffer Moore coming into this game. Moore has been one of the top players for Sheffield United and has played a significant role in fuelling their promotion dreams. The striker is known for his aerial abilities and his towering presence in the box. The 32-year-old is a guaranteed winner when it comes to aerial duels and position. He has found the back of the net four times and also has three assists to his name, including two goals in the last three games. 

Match facts

• Sunderland have lost all of their last five league games against Sheffield United
• They haven’t lost any of their opening league of the year in the last six years
• Sheffield United are winless in their opening league game of the year in the last five years

Sunderland vs Sheffield United: Betting tips and Odds

• Tip 1: Sheffield United to win – 2/1 by Betway
• Tip 2: Kieffer Moore to score anytime – 7/2 by bet365 
• Tip 3: Both teams to score – 19/20 by CORAL

Injury & Team News

Jenson Seelt and Salis Samed will remain unavailable for Sunderland. Meanwhile, Sheffield United will miss Femi Seriki, Harry Souttar, Ollie Arblaster, and Tyrese Campbell.

Chris Wilder has confirmed that @harryjsouttar suffered a serious achilles injury in the defeat to Burnley. Wishing you all the best in your recovery, Soutts. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/vRj7ZKCD9X

— Sheffield United (@SheffieldUnited) December 29, 2024

Head-to-head

Total Matches played – 12

Sunderland wins – 5

Sheffield United wins – 7

Draws – 0

Predicted Line-up 

Sunderland (4-2-3-1)

Patterson (GK); Hume, Meoham, Ballard, Cirkin; Neil, Bellingham; Roberts, Rigg, Mayenda; Isidor

Sheffield United (4-2-3-1)

Cooper (GK); Gilchrist, Souttar, Robinson, Burrows; Peck, Davies; O’Hare, Brewster, Hamer; Moore

Prediction for Sunderland vs Sheffield United

Sheffield United have been one of the best sides to watch this season and are therefore the favourites to emerge victorious. 

Prediction: Sunderland 1-3 Sheffield United

Telecast for Sunderland vs Sheffield United

India – FanCode

UK – Sky Sports Football

US – CBS Sports Network, Paramount+

Nigeria – No Telecast

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