Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
In the previous round, Middlesbrough missed the chance to capitalise on Sunderland dropping points. Now, they have the opportunity to close the gap to eight points with a head-to-head victory.
Middlesbrough
Their last match was an away fixture, so a defeat to Preston North End wasn’t entirely surprising. However, the course of the game, especially the start of the second half, suggested that Middlesbrough should have pushed harder against Preston North End. After Delano Burgzorg equalised in the 52nd minute, Middlesbrough’s attack seemed to gain momentum, but their own defensive lapses in their penalty area cost them dearly – resulting in a loss (1:2). If they show the same inconsistency against one of the league’s top sides, victory will likely remain out of reach.
Sunderland
Sunderland didn’t have their best day in the last round either. It takes some doing not to beat the bottom team in the league, especially one that hadn’t scored in its last two matches. Plymouth Argyle barely left their own half, managing just 31% possession, seven shots, and three on target – yet they somehow scored twice, including an own goal. While Sunderland missed out on three points, at least they avoided defeat. Sunderland are now unbeaten in five matches. Their last loss came against Stoke City – a team that seems to have their number, having also knocked Sunderland out of the FA Cup later on.
Middlesbrough vs Sunderland Prediction
In 2024, Sunderland avoided defeat against Middlesbrough in both encounters – a draw at the Riverside (1:1) and a home win (1:0). They might be prone to the occasional slip-up, but at least they concede fewer goals than expected (-12.2 xGDiff). That’s more than can be said for their upcoming opponents, who boast a positive xG difference of +4.5. Sunderland should be able to take points again on Monday.
