Sunderland vs Aston Villa

Sunderland vs Aston Villa Preview

Match details

Kick-off: September 21 2025, 14:00 BST

Stadium: Stadium of Light

Confirmed lineups

Sunderland (4-3-3)

• Goalkeeper: R. Roefs
• Defenders: T. Hume, N. Mukiele, O. Alderete, Reinildo
• Midfielders: C. Rigg, G. Xhaka, N. Sadiki
• Forwards: C. Talbi, W. Isidor, E. Le Fée

Aston Villa (4-2-3-1)

• Goalkeeper: E. Martínez
• Defenders: M. Cash, E. Konsa, T. Mings, L. Digne
• Midfielders: J. McGinn, B. Kamara, E. Buendía
• Forwards: M. Rogers, E. Guessand, O. Watkins

Missing players

Sunderland will be without A. Alese due to a shoulder injury, which could impact their defensive organization. His absence may require adjustments in the back line.

Aston Villa currently has no listed missing players, presenting them with an opportunity to field their strongest team, which is crucial given their current form.

Match background

This match sees Sunderland in 8th place with 7 points, looking to solidify their position in the upper half of the table. Aston Villa, sitting in 19th with just 2 points, desperately needs a win to kickstart their season and avoid relegation concerns.

Recent form

Sunderland's recent form shows a mix of results with a record of DRAW-WIN-LOSS-WIN. They have demonstrated a solid performance at home, scoring an average of 2.5 goals per game while also keeping clean sheets.

Aston Villa is struggling with recent results, recording DRAW-LOSS-LOSS-DRAW. They have yet to score in the league this season, indicating severe attacking challenges that must be addressed if they hope to turn their fortunes around.

Head-to-head record

• January 2, 2016: Sunderland 3 - 1 Aston Villa
• August 29, 2015: Aston Villa 2 - 2 Sunderland
• March 14, 2015: Sunderland 0 - 4 Aston Villa

Prediction

Aston Villa's struggles to score could give Sunderland an advantage in this match. Expect Sunderland to fend off attacks effectively and capitalize on home advantage.