The Birmingham side missed out on the Champions League play-offs last year only due to a defeat by PSG. Domestically, they were edged out by Newcastle for fifth place on points. This season, they have achieved little in the cups, but in the Europa League, the English club has been almost flawless. They also won the return leg against Bologna. In the Premier League, after a gradual rise, they climbed up to third place. However, a string of setbacks followed, allowing Manchester United to overtake them. In the previous round, they only managed a draw against Nottingham Forest.
The club from the “Stadium of Light” finally earned promotion from the Championship via the play-offs in 2025. Most importantly, Le Bris has managed to keep things steady at a higher level with his squad, although they did lose in the cup to modest Port Vale. Against Tottenham in the last round, a single goal was enough for a win.
Emery’s side scores an average of 1.34 goals per game, conceding 1.19. Sunderland’s stats are worse, but not critical: 1.03 goals scored to 1.13 conceded per match.
Previous Matches: Aston Villa vs Sunderland
In the 2017/2018 Championship season, the Birmingham team won both matches. However, when they finally met again in September, it ended 1-1.
The hosts are expected to win here, but they are not in top form. A neutral option is to bet on “total under 2.5 goals” (odds – 1.90).
Aston Villa vs Sunderland: Key Statistics and Trends
Aston Villa have won four of their last six matches
53% of Aston Villa’s matches end with both teams scoring, with an average of 2.53 goals per game
Sunderland have won three of their last five matches
44% of Sunderland’s matches end with both teams scoring, with an average of 2.16 goals per game
Aston Villa vs Sunderland: Probable Starting Lineups
Aston Villa typically play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Bizot – Digne, Torres, Lindelöf, Cash – Tielemans, Onana – Rogers, Barkley, McGinn – Watkins. Kamara and Allison Edward will not play.
Sunderland are expected to use a 1-4-1-4-1 formation (possible lineup): Elborg – Hume, Alderete, O’Nien, Geertruida – Xhaka – Talbi, Sadiki, Diarra, Rigg – Brobbey. Traoré, Ta Bi, and Angulo will be unavailable.
