Sunderland vs. Blackburn Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips - bettingexpert
Sunderland host Blackburn at the Stadium of Light on 21 April 2025 in a crucial Championship clash. With Sunderland sitting comfortably in 4th place with 76 points, they’re eyeing a strong finish to boost their playoff momentum. Blackburn, on the other hand, are 10th with 59 points and looking to salvage their season with a win.
Sunderland come into this one as bookmaker favorites, supported by their solid defense—three clean sheets in their last five matches. Blackburn, under the cloud of possibly replacing their manager Valérien Ismaël, has won just one of their last eight games.
We’ve seen more than 2.5 goals in 80% of the matches between these teams in the past five seasons, making for an exciting clash. Given Sunderland’s current form and home advantage, we’re recommending a bet on Sunderland -1.00 (AH) to back the Black Cats for a strong showing.
Expect an engaging encounter as both teams aim to finish their seasons on a high note.
Sunderland vs Blackburn Prediction & Betting Tip
For this match, I’m recommending a bet on Sunderland -1.00 (AH). This is based on several factors that point to Sunderland’s favorability in this clash.
| Sunderland vs Blackburn Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting Tip | Odds |
| Sunderland -1.00 (AH) | 1.71 |
Reasons why this betting tip is a solid choice:
- Strong Defence: Sunderland has kept three clean sheets in their last five games, showcasing a solid backline.
- Home Advantage: Playing at the Stadium of Light gives Sunderland a significant boost, with the support of their home crowd.
- Recent Form: While Blackburn has struggled, winning just one of their last eight matches, Sunderland has been more consistent and looks stronger overall.
Sunderland vs Blackburn Odds
| Sunderland vs Blackburn Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Sunderland | 1.71 |
| Draw | 3.63 |
| Blackburn | 4.75 |
Sunderland enters this fixture as the bookmakers’ favourite, given their higher position and strong defensive record. Blackburn lags behind both in form and standings, making them the underdogs. The odds reflect Sunderland’s home advantage and overall better performance this season.
Given the stakes, a home win not only looks probable but also rewarding for bettors. The draw and away win, while offering higher returns, appear much less likely based on current form.
Sunderland Team Analysis
Sunderland Recent Performance
| Sunderland | Opponent | Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunderland | Millwall | 2025-03-29 | Championship | 1-0 (Win) |
| West Bromwich | Sunderland | 2025-04-05 | Championship | 0-1 (Win) |
| Norwich | Sunderland | 2025-04-08 | Championship | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Sunderland | Swansea | 2025-04-12 | Championship | 0-1 (Loss) |
| Bristol City | Sunderland | 2025-04-18 | Championship | 2-1 (Loss) |
Recent Form: LLDWL
Sunderland’s recent form has been a mixed bag, with two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five games. Despite their ups and downs, they’re solid defensively, managing three clean sheets in these games.
They have scored an average of 0.60 goals per game recently, indicative of a tight, low-scoring strategy. However, their strong defensive record has been a cornerstone, helping them secure a playoff spot in the Championship.
Régis Le Bris will be looking to capitalize on the home advantage and steer his team back to winning ways.
Sunderland Key Players
Sunderland’s prominence in the Championship is largely bolstered by their key players who bring quality and consistency to the squad. Wilson Isidor, the top scorer with 12 goals this season, is a vital offensive force for the Black Cats and will be looking to pierce Blackburn’s defense. Patrick Roberts and Enzo Le Fée add creativity and midfield control, and their performances will be crucial in supplying Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda with scoring opportunities. Sunderland’s solid defense, anchored by Luke O’Nien and Chris Mepham, will aim to hold Blackburn’s attack at bay.
Expected lineup for Sunderland:
- Goalkeeper: Anthony Patterson
- Defenders: Tom Lavery, Chris Mepham, Luke O’Nien, Leo Fuhr Hjelde
- Midfielders: Dan Neil, Enzo Le Fée, Chris Rigg
- Forwards: Patrick Roberts, Eliezer Mayenda, Tom Watson
Key battles to watch include Isidor facing off against Dominic Hyam and Danny Batth, which could be decisive in determining the outcome.
Sunderland Suspensions & Injuries
Sunderland has a substantial injury list that could impact their squad depth and performance. Here’s a rundown of current injuries:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Daniel Ballard | Hamstring Injury | Early May 2025 |
| Niall Huggins | Knee surgery | Mid May 2025 |
| Aji Alese | Broken leg | Mid June 2025 |
| Jayden Danns | Back injury | Early May 2025 |
| Ian Poveda | Leg injury | Early May 2025 |
| Dennis Cirkin | Hamstring Injury | A few days |
| Jenson Seelt | Knee injury | Early May 2025 |
| Romaine Mundle | Hamstring Injury | Early May 2025 |
In addition, Sunderland will be without Trai Hume due to suspension.
| Player | Suspension | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Trai Hume | Red card | 1 match |
These absences, especially in defense and midfield, might force Régis Le Bris to make tactical adjustments. However, Sunderland has shown resilience, and the availability of key players can help mitigate these challenges.
Sunderland Tactics and Formation
Sunderland Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-3-3
- Key Forward: Eliezer Mayenda
- Midfield Trio: Dan Neil, Enzo Le Fée, Chris Rigg
- Defensive Strength: Three clean sheets in the last five games.
- Notable Strategy: Dominance in midfield and strategic wing play.
Régis Le Bris is expected to line up Sunderland in a balanced 4-3-3 formation. With Anthony Patterson in goal, the defense will be anchored by Chris Mepham and Luke O’Nien, providing solidity.
Dan Neil, Enzo Le Fée, and Chris Rigg form a dynamic midfield trio aimed at controlling possession and dictating the pace of the game.
Up front, Eliezer Mayenda leads the attack, with Patrick Roberts and Tom Watson providing width and creativity on the flanks.
With an eye on a potential promotion, Sunderland’s emphasis will likely be on a solid defense and effective counter-attacking play.
Blackburn Team Analysis
Blackburn Recent Performance
| Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blackburn | Millwall | 2025-04-18 | Championship | 4-1 (Win) |
| Luton | Blackburn | 2025-04-12 | Championship | 0-1 (Win) |
| Blackburn | Sheff Wed | 2025-04-08 | Championship | 2-2 (Draw) |
| Blackburn | Boro | 2025-04-04 | Championship | 0-2 (Loss) |
| Portsmouth | Blackburn | 2025-03-29 | Championship | 1-0 (Loss) |
Blackburn have been inconsistent in recent matches, registering two wins, a draw, and two losses in their last five games.
Their recent form has seen them average 1.40 goals per game while managing just one clean sheet.
This mixed form has kept them mid-table in 10th position, currently on 59 points. However, a recent 4-1 win against Millwall might just give them the confidence boost they need.
Consistency will be key for Valérien Ismaël’s side if they aim to finish the season on a high.
Blackburn Key Players
Expected lineup for Blackburn:
- Goalkeeper: Balázs Tóth
- Defenders: Callum Brittain, Danny Batth, Dominic Hyam, Yuri Ribeiro
- Midfielders: Sondre Tronstad, Lewis Travis, Todd Cantwell
- Attackers: Tyrhys Dolan, Yuki Ohashi, Ryan Hedges
A significant player to watch will be Yuki Ohashi, Blackburn’s top scorer with 8 goals this season. His knack for finding the net will be pivotal, especially against a Sunderland defense that has conceded an average of 0.9 goals this season.
Look out for individual battles such as Ohashi against Sunderland’s solid centre-back, Chris Mepham.
In midfield, Lewis Travis and Todd Cantwell will need to match Sunderland’s creativity if they are to control the game’s tempo. Their contributions could decide Blackburn’s success in breaking down the home team’s disciplined defense.
Blackburn Suspensions & Injuries
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Scott Wharton | Cruciate ligament injury | Mid May 2025 |
| Zak Gilsenan | Muscle injury | Early May 2025 |
| Harry Leonard | Leg injury | Early May 2025 |
| Andreas Weimann | Meniscus injury | Early June 2025 |
| Augustus Kargbo | Hamstring injury | Early May 2025 |
| Emmanuel Dennis | Hamstring injury | Early May 2025 |
| Hayden Carter | Calf injury | Early May 2025 |
| Owen Beck | Hamstring injury | Late May 2025 |
Blackburn’s squad depth will be tested as they face Sunderland with several key players sidelined. The absence of Scott Wharton in defence could be significant, especially against a Sunderland side that scores in 79% of their matches.
Midfield and attack are also thin with multiple players out. Returning players are crucial for Blackburn to stage a competitive match.
Blackburn Tactics and Formation
Blackburn’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Yuki Ohashi
- Midfield Trio: Sondre Tronstad, Lewis Travis, Todd Cantwell
- Defensive Structure: Callum Brittain, Danny Batth, Dominic Hyam, Yuri Ribeiro
- Goalkeeper: Balázs Tóth
- Notable Strategy:
Blackburn typically aligns in a 4-2-3-1, focusing on maintaining a solid defensive base while using speed and creativity in attack. Valérien Ismaël’s approach includes pressing high and capitalizing on transitions.
Yuki Ohashi, as the lone striker, supports by making runs behind the defence, while the midfield trio, especially Cantwell, provides both creativity and stability. Despite conceding an average of 1.4 goals in their last five games, Blackburn’s strength lies in their ability to strike back quickly, evident in their recent 4-1 win against Millwall.
Sunderland vs Blackburn Head-to-Head Statistics
| Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blackburn | Sunderland | 2024-12-26 | Championship | 2-2 |
| Sunderland | Blackburn | 2024-04-01 | Championship | 1-5 (Loss) |
| Blackburn | Sunderland | 2023-09-20 | Championship | 1-3 (Win) |
| Sunderland | Blackburn | 2022-12-26 | Championship | 2-1 (Win) |
| Blackburn | Sunderland | 2022-10-18 | Championship | 2-0 (Loss) |
In the last five meetings, both teams have had moments of dominance. Sunderland won two matches, Blackburn also secured two victories, and one encounter ended in a draw. This suggests a tightly contested fixture historically, often with more than 2.5 goals scored.
Odds accurate as of 19/04/2025 15:01, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.
