Sunderland will host Leeds United in an important clash on December 28, 2025, at the Stadium of Light. This match marks Sunderland’s last game of the year. The two teams are competing at different ends of the Premier League table. Sunderland sits in sixth place with 27 points after their recent goalless draw with Brighton. In contrast, Leeds United is in sixteenth position with 19 points, coming off a convincing 4-1 victory against Crystal Palace.
Sunderland’s Home Advantage
Sunderland aims to maintain their unbeaten home record, being one of only two teams yet to lose at home this season. Coach Régis Le Bris faces a selection dilemma as key players are unavailable due to international commitments related to the Africa Cup of Nations. Notable absentees include:
- Arthur Masuaku
- Reinildo Mandava
- Noah Sadiki
- Chemsdine Talbi
- Bertrand Traoré
In their places, Simon Adingra is expected to lead the attack, likely paired with Brian Brobbey. Granit Xhaka will play a pivotal role in midfield, potentially supported by defender Lutsharel Geertruida, who has been adapted to a central role. The defensive pairing may consist of Daniel Ballard and Omar Alderete.
Leeds United’s Recent Form
Leeds United, under the management of Daniel Farke, is experiencing a resurgence. They remain unbeaten in their last four matches, with two wins and two draws. This resurgence includes an impressive scoring streak, with the team netting at least three goals in three of those four games. Key forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin is in excellent form, having scored six goals in his last five appearances. Farke is hopeful he can continue this scoring run.
Leeds United’s Injury Updates
Leeds does have some injury concerns, as Sean Longstaff and Daniel James are ruled out. There is a possibility that Lukas Nmecha may return, pending positive training progress. Farke is expected to field an attacking duo of Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor, supported in midfield by:
- Ethan Ampadu
- Anton Stach
- Brenden Aaronson
Match Statistics and Predictions
Sunderland has had difficulty creating clear goal-scoring opportunities, with the lowest expected goals (xG) from open play in the league at 7.6. They have not recorded a match with more than 1 xG from open play this season. However, their sturdy defense has kept them in contention for European qualification.
In contrast, Leeds aim to build on their recent success. If Calvert-Lewin scores, he will break a longstanding club record by becoming the first Leeds player since 1960 to score in six consecutive top-flight matches.
Predicted Lineups
Sunderland is expected to line up as follows:
- Goalkeeper: Roefs
- Defenders: Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Hume
- Midfielders: Xhaka, Geertruida
- Forwards: Rigg, Le Fée, Adingra, Brobbey
Leeds United’s predicted lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Perri
- Defenders: Rodon, Bijol, Struijk
- Midfielders: Bogle, Aaronson, Ampadu, Stach, Guðmundsson
- Forwards: Calvert-Lewin, Okafor
Viewing Information
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League, with coverage beginning at 13:00 GMT. This exciting fixture promises to be an important duel as both teams look to secure crucial points in the Premier League.
