Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Derby County approach their clash with Sunderland in a dismal mood, following a poor stretch of four defeats and an elimination from the FA Cup. Meanwhile, after a gruelling battle against top three side Burnley (0:0) on Friday, Sunderland are unlikely to take significant risks when visiting the underdog.
Derby County
In the past month, Derby County have suffered six losses in seven matches across all competitions. Their FA Cup elimination at the hands of League One side Leyton Orient (1:2 after penalties) was a major blow to Derby County's pride. At home against Watford (0:2), they managed only three shots on target with 1.25 xG, as the attack led by Jerry Yates struggled with poor finishing. In their last four Championship outings, Derby have seen the total under 2.5 occur three times.
Sunderland
Notably, Sunderland have a similar statistical trend since 29 December, with an average of 2.3 goals scored in their matches. They boast an exemplary away defence, conceding just 14 goals in 14 games, which has helped them secure 20 points (the fourth-best in the league). After being eliminated from the FA Cup by Stoke City (1:2 on penalties), Sunderland let a win slip against Burnley, with Wilson Isidor missing two penalties in the closing stages.
Derby County vs Sunderland Prediction
In October, Derby County suffered a clean-sheet loss at Sunderland (0:2). At home, the underdog will likely play more solidly, and Sunderland will still be reeling from Wilson Isidor's recent penalty missteps.
