Sunderland vs Chelsea Match Preview and Predictions
Most soccer matches may at times appear more important than a cup final. One of them is this.
Today’s final-day Premier League match between Sunderland and Chelsea at the renowned Stadium of Light will decide European football dreams.
The pressure couldn’t be greater, and kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 pm WAT.
Chelsea is now in eighth place, only one point below Sunderland, who are currently in tenth position on the EPL table. Just one game. 90 minutes. One last chance. It’s the best kind of football drama.
Fans’ hearts beat more quickly during this type of game than when they check their betting slip in the 89th minute.
Match Preview & Team Form
Sunderland’s comeback to the Premier League has been amazing and full of surprises.
The Black Cats, led by Théis Le Bris, are above expectations. They recovered from bad play last weekend, defeating Everton 3-1 on the road.
They are now on the point of history.
Sunderland has not seen European football in more than 53 years. If they succeed, just picture the feelings inside the Stadium of Light. It’s possible that fans may celebrate so loudly that they can be heard overseas.
Chelsea’s season has been completely dysfunctional.
Before Xabi Alonso arrives for the upcoming season, interim manager Calum McFarlane has been aimed at stabilizing the team after former manager Liam Rosenior was fired following an unsuccessful performance.
Chelsea have maintained their hopes with an important victory over Tottenham. However, there is one major concern.
In 15 consecutive league games, the Blues have failed to maintain a clean sheet.
Astute football bettors should take notice of that fact right away.
Head-to-Head Record
Sunderland shocked Chelsea earlier this season with a dramatic 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge.
The hero that day was Chemsdine Talbi with a stunning 93rd-minute winner.
Football can be cruel. Football can be beautiful.
If Sunderland win today, they complete their first league double over Chelsea in more than twenty years.
Still, Chelsea historically enjoy trips to Wearside and have lost only once in their last thirteen Premier League away games against Sunderland.
Team News
Sunderland face injury concerns. Chemsdine Talbi misses out, while Romaine Mundle and Dan Ballard are unavailable.
Chelsea receive major boosts.
Levi Colwill, João Pedro, Reece James, and Malo Gusto are back available. That is excellent news for fans hoping for a stronger lineup.
And then there is Cole Palmer.
After being left out of Thomas Tuchel‘s England plans, Palmer now has something to prove.
Dangerous players with motivation usually create headlines.
