Can Sunderland continue their European heroics in the league: Manchester City vs Sunderland prediction
The fifth-round Premier League clash between Manchester City and Sunderland will take place on September 20 at the Etihad Stadium. The hosts have collected 12 points from a possible 12 and share the lead in the league, while the visitors have four points after four rounds.
Manchester City: six straight wins in all competitions
Enzo Maresca's side have won their last six competitive matches and head into the clash in excellent form. City began the Premier League season with four victories, while they have kept clean sheets in each of their last four matches in all competitions.
In the previous league round, the Manchester side beat Manchester United 1-0 despite being reduced to ten men. Phil Foden will miss the game through suspension, while Jérémy Doku is close to returning from injury.
Sunderland: European victory after defeat to Arsenal
Régis Le Bris's side have picked up four points from four Premier League games, recording one win, one draw and two defeats. In the previous round, Sunderland lost 2-0 to Arsenal.
In midweek, the Black Cats played their first European match in 53 years and beat AZ 1-0 thanks to an Enzo Le Fée penalty. The team now faces a difficult away trip amid a congested schedule and several absences.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Manchester City have won all four of their opening Premier League matches.
- Sunderland are yet to win away from home in the league this season.
- Manchester City have not lost to Sunderland in their last 14 Premier League home meetings.
Hosts can maintain their perfect start: Manchester City vs Sunderland prediction
Sunderland are capable of playing in an organized manner, but after their European fixture, it will be difficult for the team to maintain a high tempo for the full 90 minutes. City had the opportunity to rotate the squad in midweek and head into the game in excellent form.
The hosts are clearly superior to their opponents in terms of squad depth and attacking quality. If the Manchester side takes control of the game quickly, it will be difficult for the visitors to create regular danger in front of their goal.
