Sunderland vs Liverpool: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 11 February 2026
One of the most intriguing matches of Premier League matchday 26 will take place on Wednesday at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, where the local side hosts Liverpool. The league newcomers, already firmly established in mid-table, are set to face a crisis-hit giant for whom every dropped point could prove fatal in the race for the Champions League. I suggest a bet on the outcome of this clash – one with solid chances for a win.
- See also: Aston Villa vs Brighton: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 11 February 2026
Match preview
The Black Cats are enjoying a remarkable season for a Premier League debutant and have already shown they can compete on equal footing with any opponent. Régis Le Bris' side confidently holds a spot in the top half of the table and trails Liverpool by just three points – a scenario that seemed unthinkable not long ago. A home draw with Arsenal (2-2), a goalless stalemate against Manchester City, and wins over direct rivals have turned the Stadium of Light into one of the league's toughest venues.
The absence of Granit Xhaka has noticeably reduced their midfield control, as seen in away matches against West Ham and Arsenal. Nevertheless, the squad remains cohesive, and Le Bris faces no suspension issues. At home, Sunderland continue to play aggressively, imposing their tempo even against top-tier opponents.
Liverpool have found themselves in turbulence again after a recent promising spell. Defeats to Bournemouth and, most notably, Manchester City last weekend – where they let a lead slip—have seriously complicated their fight for fourth place. The gap to the Champions League zone has grown to five points, and the pressure on Arne Slot is mounting with every matchday.
The situation is exacerbated by personnel problems. The right flank of defense is in crisis: Frimpong and Bradley are injured, while Szoboszlai is suspended after his red card against City. Their away record is also worrying – five defeats in 12 road games and a negative goal difference, especially against spirited mid-table sides like Brentford, Crystal Palace, and Bournemouth.
Probable line-ups
- Sunderland: Ruufs, Alderete, Ballard, Mandava, Mukiele, Diarra, Sadiki, Talbi, Le Fée, Hume, Brobbey.
- Liverpool: Alisson Becker, Konaté, van Dijk, Jones, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo, Ekitike.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Four of the last seven meetings between Sunderland and Liverpool have ended in a draw.
- In five of the previous seven encounters, fewer than three goals were scored per game.
- Sunderland remain unbeaten at home in the Premier League this season.
Prediction
This match looks particularly dangerous for the visitors. Sunderland are rock solid at home and play confidently against top sides, while Liverpool are vulnerable on the road and struggling with a depleted squad. Given the current form and the context of the season, the hosts are more than capable of putting up a fight – and may even tip the scales in their favor. A scenario featuring a tight contest and a narrow Black Cats victory looks entirely plausible.
