Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Championship match.
Who would have thought before the season started that this clash would be a battle for the top spot, with Sunderland leading the charge? Yet, that's exactly what has transpired. A win for the hosts will see them maintain their lead and push Leeds United further away from the first position.
Sunderland
Wilson Isidor, who joined Sunderland on loan from Zenit St. Petersburg with an option to buy, is beginning to meet expectations. His second game in the starting eleven yielded his second goal. Sunderland dominated against Derby County as long as they needed. Once the score hit 2:0 by the 55th minute, they eased off somewhat; Derby County's 13 (5) shots mostly came afterward. Despite this, neither Derby County nor any other team has managed to breach Sunderland's defence in the last four games.
Leeds United
Leeds United have faced such staunch defence only twice in this campaign. Burnley and West Bromwich Albion didn't allow them to score. Both of these clubs are currently above Leeds United in the standings after eight rounds. The team excels in keeping clean sheets—having conceded none in five of their eight outings.
Sunderland vs Leeds United Prediction
In their last five encounters, the total under 2.5 has always prevailed, with the "both teams to score - no" bet coming through four times out of five. Either option seems a safe bet, but we'll go with the total under.
