The upcoming match between Brentford and Sunderland offers an intriguing clash of two teams with distinct histories and recent performances.
Brentford vs Sunderland: Key Stats and Team News
This is only the second time Brentford will host Sunderland in a league match during the 21st century. Their previous meeting ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw in the Championship back in October 2017.
Historical Context
- Sunderland emerged victorious with a 2-1 win at the Stadium of Light last August.
- Their win positioned Sunderland to achieve their first league double over Brentford since the 1987-88 season in the third tier.
Brentford’s Home Performance
Brentford has amassed an impressive 34 points from a possible 39 at home against newly promoted clubs in the Premier League. Their record includes:
- 11 wins
- 1 draw
- 1 loss to Norwich in November 2021
- 1 draw with Leeds last month
Despite their strong home performance, Brentford has struggled in midweek matches, securing just three wins from their last 23 Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday Premier League games. All victories were on the road, and they remain winless in their last nine home matches, marking five draws and four losses.
Sunderland’s Recent Struggles
Sunderland faces their own challenges, remaining winless in their last nine evening kick-offs in the Premier League. Their record includes:
- 4 draws
- 5 losses
- Failing to score in seven of those matches since their last win against Everton in May 2016
Current Form
Brentford has enjoyed a solid run under new manager Keith Andrews, winning six of their ten home Premier League matches this season. This marks the highest win rate for a Brentford manager in his first ten home league games since Mark Warburton achieved nine wins in the 2013-14 season.
Sunderland, meanwhile, has drawn their last four Premier League games and could become the first team to draw five consecutive matches in the league since Fulham did so between December 2020 and January 2021.
Individual Highlights
Brentford’s midfielder Jordan Henderson has been pivotal in recent home matches against promoted teams, contributing to a goal in his last two appearances. He remains unbeaten in his last 33 home games against promoted sides, with a remarkable record of 26 wins and 7 draws.
Additionally, forward Igor Thiago has netted 14 goals this season, just one goal shy of the all-time record of 15 goals scored by a Brazilian player in a single Premier League campaign, which was set by Roberto Firmino, Gabriel Martinelli, and Matheus Cunha in previous seasons.
This match promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in the Premier League.
