2026-27 Premier League: Week Two – Sunderland vs Fulham

Sunderland chase a first win of the season as they meet Fulham in a Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light. 

Victory would lift either Sunderland or Fulham up to at least 11th in the table at minimum.

 

Team News

Dayann Methalie won’t make his debut for Sunderland because he has to serve an one-match suspension from his time at Toulouse.

Jules Ahoka however is set for his debut.

Simon Adingra remains ruled out with an ankle injury.

Fulham could be without Luc de Fougerolles after he suffered a minor knee injury in their 3-0 Carabao Cup victory over AFC Wimbledon, although he is thought to haven’t suffered any major damage and is likely to go out on loan before the transfer window shuts.

Tom Cairney remains sidelined with a knee injury.

 

When is Kick-Off?

Sunderland face Fulham at the Stadium of Light on Sunday 30 August at 2pm BST, live on Sky Sports+ in the UK.

 

Stat Attack

• Sunderland have claimed seven points in their last six Premier League meetings against Fulham (W2, D1, L3).
• Fulham are unbeaten in their last six top-flight visits to Sunderland (W3, D3).
• Sunderland have lost one of their last four top-flight matches at home (W2, D1, L1).
• Gonzalo Garcia has scored in both of Fulham’s two matches in all competitions so far this season (W1, L1).

 

Prediction

Having been outplayed in the second half at Ipswich after a dominant first half in which they conceded first against the run of play, Sunderland now need to find consistency in their game play because it’s vital that they are scoring points in these early weeks before the Thursday-Sunday routine kicks in.

Fulham meanwhile certainly have adapted well to life under Alvaro Arbeloa as evidenced by their attacking displays in a 3-2 league loss to Chelsea then 3-0 Carabao Cup win over AFC Wimbledon, but this is their third match in six days so will be interesting to see if the energy can stay high.

Sunderland therefore might be wise to play the long patient game and try to wear Fulham physically down and pounce in the second half, but the Cottagers seem to enjoy playing on Wearside and I think they can get the job done before fatigue sets in if are clinical enough when on top.

Prediction: Sunderland 1-2 Fulham