Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
After suffering back-to-back defeats, Sunderland are likely to remain in fourth place. Sheffield Wednesday, meanwhile, have also slipped up in their last two matches and now seem unlikely to push for a playoff spot.
Sheffield Wednesday
Sheffield Wednesday have never been dominant at home this season, but they have also lost their ability to win on the road. Losing away to Burnley was expected, but the manner of their defeat was shocking—conceding four goals against a side that had been struggling to score freely. Statistically, Sheffield Wednesday should have only let in one goal based on their 1.46 xGA, but their defensive frailties proved costly. Over the last five matches, only Swansea City—who average just over a goal per game this season—failed to score against them.
Sunderland
Sunderland’s first defeat in this run was understandable, given that they were up against league leaders Leeds United away. However, that loss came in agonising fashion, with Leeds snatching the win in the final minute of stoppage time. Sunderland’s most recent defeat against Hull City was even more notable—it was the first time in seven matches that they failed to score. Across the season, Sunderland have only lost three times when managing to get on the scoresheet. Simply put, if they find the net here, their chances of picking up points are high.
Sheffield Wednesday vs Sunderland Prediction
Sheffield Wednesday have lost two of their last four matches despite scoring, and in the last three meetings between these sides, Sunderland have been the only team to find the net. Given that trend, it seems likely that the visitors will score and avoid defeat—just as they usually do.
