The London Stadium hosts a high-stakes encounter between two sides with vastly different trajectories. The hosts enter after a crucial FA Cup victory, finally snapping a ten-game winless streak. Meanwhile, the visitors are fresh off a consistent run of four consecutive draws against top-tier opposition. It is Nuno’s pragmatic low block versus Le Bris’s sophisticated, possession-heavy tactical setup.
West Ham United vs Sunderland Match Details at a Glance
| Match Detail | Information |
| Match | West Ham United vs Sunderland |
| Venue | London Stadium |
| Date | January 24, 2026 |
| Time | 06:30 PM (BDT) / 06:00 PM (INR) |
| Broadcast & Live Streaming | Click here to watch the West Ham United vs Sunderland live on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
Injury News and Suspensions
West Ham United
The Hammers face significant defensive hurdles as Konstantinos Mavropanos remains sidelined with a head injury until late January. Meanwhile, veteran goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski is a major doubt due to a recurring back issue. These absences further complicate Nuno’s attempt to fix the league’s most porous backline before this crucial clash.
Sunderland
The Black Cats are relatively healthy as they travel to the capital, though Ajibola Alese remains a confirmed absentee. The defender is recovering from a shoulder injury and isn’t expected back until late January. Aside from this minor setback, Regis Le Bris has a near-full squad available for this selection.
West Ham United vs Sunderland Head-to-Head Records
| Matches Played | 93 |
| West Ham United Won | 36 |
| Sunderland Won | 32 |
| Tied | 25 |
| First-ever Fixture | April 01, 1923 |
| Most-recent Fixture | August 16, 2025 |
Form Guide
West Ham United
Struggling in eighteenth place with just fourteen points, the hosts are fighting for survival. Nuno’s tenure has been defined by a vulnerable defense and crumbling morale, despite having talents like Paquetá and Bowen. They rely on direct attacks but often look disjointed. However, a recent FA Cup win might provide the psychological spark needed to end their miserable league form and finally close the seven-point gap toward safety right now.
Sunderland
Sitting comfortably in tenth, the visitors have adapted brilliantly to life back in the top flight. Under Le Bris, they emphasize tactical intelligence and fluid movement, led by midfield maestro Le Fee. While their low xG and tendency to lose midfield duels remain concerns, their recent streak of draws against elite teams proves they are a resilient unit that is notoriously difficult to break down for any tough league opponent.
Key Battles
Kyle Walker-Peters vs Simon Adingra
Based on the players available, a likely key duel is Kyle Walker-Peters acting as the defensive linchpin for the hosts, tasked with maintaining structural integrity in a struggling backline. His recovery speed and ability to track runners are vital for Nuno’s deep-sitting system. He must remain disciplined to prevent the visitors from exploiting wide areas during their long spells of possession.
Simon Adingra provides the visitors with flair and directness on the flank. His role involves stretching the pitch and creating space for Brobbey. If he can bypass his marker, he will force the Hammers’ center-backs out of position, potentially exposing a defense that has leaked goals all season long now.
Paquetá vs Granit Xhaka
Lucas Paquetá is the creative heartbeat for the home side, responsible for turning defensive transitions into dangerous counter-attacks. In a team that often lacks cohesion, his individual brilliance is usually the only source of inspiration. He needs to find pockets of space to release Bowen and Summerville behind the defense.
Granit Xhaka serves as the tactical anchor for the visitors, dictating the tempo and snuffing out opposition threats before they develop. His experience is crucial for winning those physical midfield duels where his team sometimes falters. Shutting down the Brazilian playmaker will be his primary objective to ensure a clean sheet.
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Tactical Outlook
Nuno employs a pragmatic, counter-attacking philosophy, prioritizing a compact defensive shape over ball retention. The squad sits deep, absorbing relentless pressure before launching direct transitions through Bowen’s pace. While this style suits their current personnel, the lack of defensive coordination has resulted in the league’s worst goals-against record, making their low-block approach a risky gamble against technical, top-half league opponents.
Le Bris utilizes a sophisticated, possession-based system where fluid player movement is paramount. The visitors focus on tactical intelligence and patient build-up play, often dominating the midfield through Le Fee’s distribution. Despite their control, they sometimes struggle to generate high-quality chances. They must be wary of conceding early, a recurring weakness that could play right into the hosts’ dangerous hands.
Possible Playing Squad
West Ham United XI:
Areola (GK), Walker-Peters, Mavropanos, Todibo, Scarles, Soucek, Fernandes, Bowen, Paquetá, Summerville, Castellanos
Sunderland XI:
Roefs (GK), Hume, Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Xhaka, Geertruida, Rigg, Le Fee, Adingra, Brobbey
West Ham United vs Sunderland Football predictions
The hosts benefit from home advantage, but their defensive fragility is a massive red flag. While Nuno’s counter-attacking setup could frustrate the visitors, the Black Cats’ superior midfield control and tactical consistency make them favorites. Expect a cagey affair where the hosts’ desperation collides with the visitors’ measured, technical approach.
West Ham United vs Sunderland Score Prediction
West Ham United 1–1 Sunderland; The Hammers’ defensive grit improves, but the visitors’ technical dominance ensures they secure a point through Brobbey’s movement, continuing their trend of consistent draws.
FAQ: Premier League 2025/26
What time does the West Ham United vs Sunderland match start?
The match kicks off at 06:30 PM BDT / 06:00 PM INR on January 24, 2026.
Who are the expected captains for West Ham United and Sunderland?
Declan Rice is expected to captain West Ham United, while Granit Xhaka leads Sunderland.
Where can I watch the West Ham United vs Sunderland live stream?
The match is available to watch live on Sports Live Hub (SLH).
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