Sunderland, UK – The Stadium of Light is set to ignite this afternoon as Sunderland and Newcastle clash in the Premier League, renewing the fierce Tyne-Wear rivalry after nearly a decade. This highly anticipated match marks the first top-flight Tyne-Wear derby since the 2015-16 season.
Sunderland, currently sitting in 10th place, have had a strong season following their promotion from the Championship. However, their recent form has been inconsistent, with only one win in their last five games. Manager Régis Le Bris will be looking to capitalize on their strong home form, as Sunderland are one of only two Premier League teams to remain undefeated at home this season.
Newcastle, managed by Eddie Howe, occupy 12th position in the league. The Magpies have experienced a mixed season, with three wins in their last four matches, but suffered a 2-2 draw against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League during the week. Howe faces selection dilemmas but the main challenge for Howe will be keeping his players clear-minded.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Sunderland will be without Luke O'Nien due to suspension, while Aji Alese and Habib Diarra are long-term absentees. However, Reinildo has recovered from a groin injury and is available for selection. Dennis Cirkin could also make his first appearance of the campaign.
Given Sunderland's attacking intent at home, Simon Adingra is expected to return to the wing, replacing Chemsdine Talbi, with Wilson Isidor leading the attack.
Sunderland Predicted XI: Roefs; Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Reinildo; Xhaka, Sadiki; Traore, Le Fee, Adingra; Isidor.
Sunderland Predicted Substitutes: Patterson (GK), Hume (DEF), Cirkin (DEF), Geertruida (DEF), Neil (MID), Rigg (MID), Mayenda (FWD), Talbi (FWD), Brobbey (FWD).
Newcastle's Nick Pope could be fit for the game, while Howe has several selection decisions to make.
Newcastle Predicted XI: Ramsdale; Livramento, Thiaw, Burn, Hall; Tonali, B. Guimaraes, Miley; J. Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon.
Newcastle Predicted Substitutes: Ruddy (GK), Schar (DEF), A. Murphy (DEF), Willock (MID), Neave (MID), Ramsey (MID), Elanga (FWD), Wissa (FWD), Barnes (FWD).
A Derby Steeped in History
The Tyne-Wear derby is renowned for its intense atmosphere and passionate supporters. Sunderland had won six of the last seven meetings before being relegated from the top flight. Newcastle secured a 3-0 victory in the FA Cup in January 2024, but Sunderland hasn't lost a league clash since 2011. In the Premier League era, both teams have won nine of their 28 encounters.
The leaders of Sunderland and Newcastle city councils have joined forces to encourage fans to enjoy the match responsibly.
Where to Watch
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Ultra HDR. Sky Sports customers can also stream the game via the Sky Go app.
Kick-off is scheduled for 2pm.
