Frank Christian
This Friday night, Sunderland will take on Leeds United in a crucial EFL Championship match that could have significant implications in the race for promotion.
Sunderland currently leads the standings and aims to continue their impressive home record, having achieved four straight home wins without allowing a goal. Their most recent match ended in a 2-0 win against Derby County, showcasing a collective team effort with contributions from various players, including Jobe Bellingham and Wilson Isidor.
Leeds United, positioned fourth, needs to win by two goals to surpass Sunderland’s point tally. Despite only suffering one loss this season, three draws have hindered their climb up the table. Joel Piroe has found the net three times this season, and under manager Daniel Farke, Leeds looks to rebound from a recent 1-1 draw versus Norwich City.
With both teams eager for a win, this encounter is poised to be crucial in determining the Championship’s direction.
The Sporting News examines important aspects of the upcoming match, including viewing options, kickoff times, and the latest team news.
Sunderland vs. Leeds live stream and TV details
Here’s how you can catch this EFL Championship showdown in the UK:
TV channels: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, Sky Ultra HD
Live stream: Sky Go UK, NOW, SKY GO Extra
The game will be aired live on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, and Sky Ultra HD, with streaming options provided through Sky Go UK, NOW, and SKY GO Extra.
Kickoff time for Sunderland vs. Leeds in the UK
This match will take place at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, England, on Friday, October 4, kicking off at 8:00 p.m. local time.
Team news and predicted lineups for Sunderland vs. Leeds
Sunderland’s manager Alex Le Bris is likely to keep his starting XI intact for the EFL Championship clash against Leeds United. Alan Browne and Ian Poveda were brought into play late in the last match versus Derby, but Poveda will miss this game due to a muscle injury. Browne remains an option for Le Bris to add attacking strength.
Sunderland’s expected lineup (4-3-3): Patterson (GK) — Hume, Mepham, O’Nien, Cirkin — Rigg, Neil, Bellingham — Roberts, Isidor, Mundle.
Injuries: Ian Poveda
Suspensions: None
On the other hand, Leeds United will enter this match with a weakened midfield. Ilia Gruev is recovering from a knee injury sustained against Norwich City, alongside Ethan Ampadu, who won’t return until next year. As a result, Joe Rothwell is expected to register his first Championship start of the season.
Leeds’ attacking options remain strong despite uncertainties. Piroe and Patrick Bamford could enter the lineup if Mateo Joseph is dropped after a string of goalless appearances.
Leeds’ predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Meslier (GK) — Bogle, Rodon, Struijk, Firpo — Tanaka, Rothwell — Gnonto, Aaronson, Ramazani — Joseph.
Injuries: Ilia Gruev, Ethan Ampadu
Suspensions: None
Prediction for Sunderland vs. Leeds
Both teams have shown inconsistent performances leading up to this match, and the quick succession of games might involve some changes to their lineups.
Considering their recent displays and potential adjustments, a low-scoring draw seems probable, given both teams’ robust defense, which may make scoring difficult.
- Prediction: Sunderland 1-1 Leeds United
This Week’s EFL Fixture Schedule
All times are in ET
Tuesday, October 1
- Burnley vs. Plymouth (2:45 p.m.)
- Cardiff vs. Millwall (2:45 p.m.)
- Coventry vs. Blackburn (2:45 p.m.)
- Luton vs. Oxford United (2:45 p.m.)
- Norwich vs. Leeds (2:45 p.m.)
- QPR vs. Hull City (2:45 p.m.)
- Sunderland vs. Derby (2:45 p.m.)
- West Brom vs. Middlesbrough (3:00 p.m.)
Wednesday, October 2
- Preston vs. Watford (2:45 p.m.)
- Sheffield United vs. Swansea (2:45 p.m.)
- Stoke vs. Portsmouth (2:45 p.m.)
- Bristol City vs. Sheffield Wednesday (3:00 p.m.)
Friday, October 4
- Sunderland vs. Leeds (3:00 p.m.)
Saturday, October 5
- Burnley vs. Preston (7:30 a.m.)
- Norwich vs. Hull City (7:30 a.m.)
- Portsmouth vs. Oxford United (7:30 a.m.)
- Coventry vs. Sheffield Wednesday (10:00 a.m.)
- Derby vs. QPR (10:00 a.m.)
- Plymouth vs. Blackburn (10:00 a.m.)
- Sheffield United vs. Luton (10:00 a.m.)
- Swansea vs. Stoke (10:00 a.m.)
- Watford vs. Middlesbrough (10:00 a.m.)
- West Brom vs. Millwall (10:00 a.m.)
Sunday, October 6
- Bristol City vs. Cardiff (10:00 a.m.)
