Match Overview
Sunderland and Preston North End are gearing up for a pivotal Championship match that could shape their season's trajectory. Sunderland, currently in a strong position, will look to capitalize on their home advantage at the Stadium of Light. Meanwhile, Preston North End aims to upset the hosts and climb the league table.
Odds Analysis
The average odds for this match suggest Sunderland as the favorites with odds of 1.6, indicating a 62.5% probability of a home win. The draw is priced at 3.78, translating to a 26.5% chance, while Preston North End's odds of 5.76 reflect a 17.4% probability of an away victory. Given these odds, Sunderland is expected to secure the win, but Preston's potential for an upset should not be underestimated.
Team Analysis
Sunderland
- Current Form: Sunderland has shown consistency with an average of 1.5 goals per match and a solid defensive record, conceding only 0.92 goals per game.
- Strengths: Strong offensive metrics with 12.39 shots per game and a high successful dribble rate of 22.64.
- Weaknesses: Vulnerable to dangerous own half losses, averaging 4.86 per match.
Preston North End
- Current Form: Preston North End averages 1 goal per match and concedes 1.17, indicating a need for defensive improvement.
- Strengths: Effective in duels, with a successful rate of 106.58 per game.
- Weaknesses: Lower offensive output with only 9.53 shots per game.
Head-to-Head
Historically, Sunderland has had the upper hand in this fixture, often leveraging their home advantage to secure victories.
Key Players Spotlight
Sunderland
- Wilson Isidor: Leading goal scorer with 12 goals, crucial for Sunderland's attacking prowess.
- Jack Clarke: High performance rating, contributing significantly to Sunderland's midfield.
Preston North End
- Emil Riis: Top scorer with 9 goals, vital for Preston's offensive strategy.
- Lewis Gibson: Key defensive player, instrumental in maintaining Preston's backline.
Statistical Deep Dive
- Offensive Metrics: Sunderland's expected goals (xG) of 1.47 surpass Preston's 1.16, indicating a stronger attacking threat.
- Defensive Metrics: Sunderland's expected goals against (xGA) of 1.07 is lower than Preston's 1.21, showcasing a more robust defense.
Prediction and Conclusion
Based on the data, Sunderland is poised to win, leveraging their superior offensive and defensive statistics. Key factors include Sunderland's home advantage and Wilson Isidor's goal-scoring form. Expect a competitive match with Sunderland likely edging out Preston North End.
Final Score Prediction
Sunderland 2-1 Preston North End
Half Time Score Prediction
Sunderland 1-0 Preston North End
Both Teams to Score Probability
With Sunderland's BTTS percentage at 52.78 and Preston's at 55.56, there's a 54% chance both teams will score.
Over 2.5 Goals Probability
Given Sunderland's 50% and Preston's 41.67% over 2.5 goals percentage, there's a 46% likelihood of over 2.5 goals in the match.