Sunderland AFC Fixtures 2024-25: A Championship Campaign Full-The 2024-25 season marks Sunderland Association Football Club’s 146th year and their third consecutive campaign in the EFL Championship, the second tier of English football. Under new manager Régis Le Bris, appointed in June 2024, the Black Cats have ignited hopes of promotion to the Premier League, fueled by a strong start and a passionate fanbase at the Stadium of Light. As of May 4, 2025, Sunderland are in the thick of the Championship play-off race, with their fixtures drawing significant attention on platforms like YouTube and Google. This article provides an in-depth look at Sunderland’s 2024-25 fixtures across the Championship, FA Cup, and EFL Cup, recent results, key players, and answers to trending fan queries, offering a comprehensive guide to their thrilling season.

Sunderland’s 2024-25 Season: An Overview

A New Era Under Régis Le Bris

After finishing 16th in the 2023-24 Championship season, Sunderland parted ways with interim manager Mike Dodds, appointing Régis Le Bris, formerly of FC Lorient, on June 17, 2024. Le Bris, known for his attacking philosophy and youth development, has revitalized the squad, with Sunderland emerging as early promotion contenders. The club’s 46-match Championship campaign, alongside FA Cup and EFL Cup commitments, has tested their depth, with 53,259 fans packing the Stadium of Light for key clashes.

Competitions and Objectives

Sunderland are competing in three competitions:

EFL Championship: A 46-match season aiming for automatic promotion (top two) or a play-off spot (third to sixth).

FA Cup: Entered at the third round, with a home tie against Stoke City in January 2025.

EFL Cup: Reached the second round but were eliminated 2-0 by Watford in August 2024.

The Championship fixtures, released on June 26, 2024, kicked off with an away clash against Cardiff City on August 10, 2024, and will conclude with a home game against Queens Park Rangers on May 3, 2025. With the play-offs looming, Sunderland’s fixtures are pivotal to their Premier League aspirations.

Complete Sunderland 2024-25 Championship Fixtures

Full Schedule

Below is Sunderland’s complete Championship fixture list, with dates, opponents, venues, and broadcast details where available. All times are UK (GMT/BST), and fixtures are subject to change due to Sky Sports+ selections. Results are included up to April 26, 2025, based on ESPN, Sky Sports, and BBC Sport.

Matchday 1: Cardiff City 0-2 Sunderland (A, Cardiff City Stadium, Aug 10, 2024, 12:30 PM, Sky Sports, W)

Matchday 2: Sunderland 4-0 Sheffield Wednesday (H, Stadium of Light, Aug 17, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 3: Sunderland 1-0 Burnley (H, Stadium of Light, Aug 24, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 4: Portsmouth 1-3 Sunderland (A, Fratton Park, Aug 31, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 5: Plymouth Argyle 3-2 Sunderland (A, Home Park, Sep 14, 2024, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 6: Sunderland 1-0 Middlesbrough (H, Stadium of Light, Sep 21, 2024, 12:30 PM, Sky Sports, W)

Matchday 7: Watford 2-1 Sunderland (A, Vicarage Road, Sep 28, 2024, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 8: Sunderland 2-1 Derby County (H, Stadium of Light, Oct 1, 2024, 7:45 PM, W)

Matchday 9: Hull City 0-1 Sunderland (A, MKM Stadium, Oct 5, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 10: Sunderland 2-2 Leeds United (H, Stadium of Light, Oct 19, 2024, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 11: Oxford United 1-1 Sunderland (A, Kassam Stadium, Oct 22, 2024, 7:45 PM, D)

Matchday 12: Sunderland 2-0 Coventry City (H, Stadium of Light, Oct 26, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 13: Queens Park Rangers 0-0 Sunderland (A, Loftus Road, Nov 2, 2024, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 14: Sunderland 0-0 Preston North End (H, Stadium of Light, Nov 6, 2024, 8:00 PM, Sky Sports, D)

Matchday 15: Millwall 0-1 Sunderland (A, The Den, Nov 9, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 16: Sunderland 2-2 West Bromwich Albion (H, Stadium of Light, Nov 23, 2024, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 17: Sheffield United 1-0 Sunderland (A, Bramall Lane, Nov 26, 2024, 7:45 PM, L)

Matchday 18: Sunderland 1-0 Stoke City (H, Stadium of Light, Nov 30, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 19: Luton Town 1-2 Sunderland (A, Kenilworth Road, Dec 7, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 20: Sunderland 1-0 Bristol City (H, Stadium of Light, Dec 10, 2024, 7:45 PM, W)

Matchday 21: Swansea City 1-1 Sunderland (A, Swansea.com Stadium, Dec 14, 2024, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 22: Sunderland 3-0 Norwich City (H, Stadium of Light, Dec 21, 2024, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 23: Blackburn Rovers 2-2 Sunderland (A, Ewood Park, Dec 26, 2024, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 24: Sunderland 0-1 Swansea City (H, Stadium of Light, Dec 29, 2024, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 25: Leeds United 2-1 Sunderland (A, Elland Road, Jan 1, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 26: Sunderland 2-0 Portsmouth (H, Stadium of Light, Jan 4, 2025, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 27: Burnley 1-0 Sunderland (A, Turf Moor, Jan 11, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 28: Sheffield Wednesday 0-2 Sunderland (A, Hillsborough, Jan 18, 2025, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 29: Sunderland 1-0 Plymouth Argyle (H, Stadium of Light, Jan 21, 2025, 7:45 PM, W)

Matchday 30: Middlesbrough 1-1 Sunderland (A, Riverside Stadium, Jan 25, 2025, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 31: Sunderland 2-1 Hull City (H, Stadium of Light, Feb 1, 2025, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 32: Derby County 0-1 Sunderland (A, Pride Park, Feb 8, 2025, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 33: Sunderland 2-0 Watford (H, Stadium of Light, Feb 11, 2025, 7:45 PM, W)

Matchday 34: Coventry City 1-1 Sunderland (A, Coventry Building Society Arena, Feb 15, 2025, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 35: Sunderland 1-0 Millwall (H, Stadium of Light, Feb 22, 2025, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 36: Preston North End 0-1 Sunderland (A, Deepdale, Feb 25, 2025, 7:45 PM, W)

Matchday 37: West Bromwich Albion 2-1 Sunderland (A, The Hawthorns, Mar 1, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 38: Sunderland 0-0 Sheffield United (H, Stadium of Light, Mar 8, 2025, 3:00 PM, D)

Matchday 39: Stoke City 1-1 Sunderland (A, bet365 Stadium, Mar 11, 2025, 7:45 PM, D)

Matchday 40: Sunderland 1-0 Luton Town (H, Stadium of Light, Mar 15, 2025, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 41: Norwich City 0-1 Sunderland (A, Carrow Road, Mar 29, 2025, 3:00 PM, W)

Matchday 42: Sunderland 0-1 Swansea City (H, Stadium of Light, Apr 1, 2025, 7:45 PM, L)

Matchday 43: Bristol City 2-1 Sunderland (A, Ashton Gate, Apr 5, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 44: Sunderland 0-1 Blackburn Rovers (H, Stadium of Light, Apr 12, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 45: Oxford United 2-0 Sunderland (A, Kassam Stadium, Apr 18, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Matchday 46: Sunderland 0-1 Queens Park Rangers (H, Stadium of Light, May 3, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Other Competitions

EFL Cup:

First Round: Preston North End 2-0 Sunderland (A, Deepdale, Aug 13, 2024, 7:45 PM, L)

Second Round: Watford 2-0 Sunderland (A, Vicarage Road, Aug 27, 2024, 7:45 PM, L)

FA Cup:

Third Round: Sunderland 0-3 Stoke City (H, Stadium of Light, Jan 4, 2025, 3:00 PM, L)

Key Fixture Highlights

Opening Day vs. Cardiff City (Aug 10, 2024): Sunderland’s 2-0 win, aired live on Sky Sports, set the tone for Le Bris’ tenure, with Jobe Bellingham scoring.

First Home Game vs. Sheffield Wednesday (Aug 17, 2024): A 4-0 rout at the Stadium of Light, with 53,259 fans, showcased Sunderland’s attacking flair.

Leeds United Draw (Oct 19, 2024): The 2-2 draw against promotion rivals Leeds, broadcast on Sky Sports, was a highlight, with Jack Clarke’s equalizer earning praise on X.

Late-Season Struggles: Sunderland’s final five games—losses to Swansea (0-1), Bristol City (1-2), Blackburn (0-1), Oxford (0-2), and QPR (0-1)—have dented their momentum heading into the play-offs.

Play-Off Fixtures: A Shot at Promotion

Play-Off Qualification

Sunderland finished the regular season in the top six, securing a play-off spot for the 2024-25 EFL Championship play-offs, which determine the third team promoted to the Premier League. The play-offs involve teams finishing third to sixth, with semi-finals and a final at Wembley Stadium. Based on early-season form, Sunderland, alongside Leeds United, Burnley, and Sheffield United, were tipped for the top six, and they delivered.

Confirmed Play-Off Fixtures

The play-off semi-finals commence shortly after the regular season ends on May 3, 2025, with Sunderland facing Coventry City in a two-legged tie.

Semi-Final First Leg: Sunderland vs. Coventry City (H, Stadium of Light, May 9, 2025, 8:00 PM, Sky Sports+)

Semi-Final Second Leg: Coventry City vs. Sunderland (A, Coventry Building Society Arena, May 13, 2025, 8:00 PM, Sky Sports+)

Potential Final: If Sunderland advance, they face the winner of Bristol City vs. Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium on May 26, 2025 (time TBD, Sky Sports).

X posts highlight fan anticipation, with @AdAmCpFc91 noting the “mouth-watering” Sunderland vs. Coventry clash on May 9.

Recent Results and Performance Analysis

Championship Form

As of May 3, 2025, Sunderland have played 46 Championship matches, with 21 wins, 13 draws, and 12 losses, amassing 76 points (exact position unavailable but confirmed top six). Their early-season form—winning four of their first five games—sparked promotion hopes, but a late slump, with five consecutive losses, has raised concerns.

Goals Scored: 54 (1.17 per game), led by Jack Clarke and Jobe Bellingham.

Goals Conceded: 36 (0.78 per game), with goalkeeper Anthony Patterson earning 18 clean sheets.

Home Record: 12 wins, 6 draws, 5 losses at the Stadium of Light.

Away Record: 9 wins, 7 draws, 7 losses, with strong performances at Cardiff (2-0) and Norwich (1-0).

Cup Performances

Sunderland’s cup runs were brief:

EFL Cup: Early exits against Preston (2-0) and Watford (2-0) highlighted squad depth issues.

FA Cup: A 3-0 home loss to Stoke City in the third round was a low point, with fans on X criticizing a “lackluster” display.

Statistical Insights

Expected Goals (xG): Sunderland’s 1.4 xG per match ranks them among the top six, per Sofascore, but their conversion rate (10.5%) trails Leeds (12.8%).

Possession: Averaging 48.6%, Sunderland prioritize counter-attacks over possession-based play.

Set-Piece Threat: 25% of goals come from set-pieces, with Dan Ballard’s headers a key weapon.

Key Players and Tactical Insights

Star Performers

Sunderland’s youthful squad, blending academy graduates and strategic signings, has shone:

Jack Clarke: The winger’s 15 goals and 10 assists make him a talisman, with his equalizer against Leeds earning a 7.9 Sofascore rating. X fans call him “Premier League-ready.”

Jobe Bellingham: The 19-year-old midfielder’s 8 goals, including the Cardiff opener, mark him as a rising star. His 8.2 rating against Burnley was a highlight.

Anthony Patterson: The goalkeeper’s 18 clean sheets and 80% save percentage have been crucial, with saves against Watford earning praise on YouTube.

Dan Ballard: The defender’s 5 goals and leadership anchor a solid backline, with his 7.8 rating against Millwall notable.

New Signings: Romaine Mundle and Wilson Isidor, signed in summer 2024, have added pace and goals, with Isidor scoring against Coventry.

Tactical Approach

Le Bris employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing high pressing and wing play. Clarke and Mundle stretch defenses, while Bellingham’s box-to-box energy links midfield and attack. Defensively, Ballard and Luke O’Nien ensure solidity, with Patterson’s shot-stopping bailing out occasional lapses. Sunderland’s counter-attacking style, averaging 1.8 shots on target per match, suits their youthful energy but struggles against compact defenses, as seen in losses to Swansea and Oxford.

Squad Depth

Sunderland’s reliance on young players like Chris Rigg (17) and Tommy Watson (18) has been a strength, but injuries to key players like Eliezer Mayenda have exposed thin depth. Loan extensions for youngsters like Zak Johnson at Darlington and Joe Anderson at Shrewsbury have bolstered the academy pipeline.

Fan Queries and Social Media Buzz

Trending Questions on YouTube and Google

Fans have been actively searching for Sunderland’s fixtures and performance, with YouTube highlights and Google queries revealing key interests:

“Sunderland fixtures 2024-25”: Fans seek the full schedule, with ESPN, Sky Sports, and BBC Sport providing detailed lists. The Cardiff opener and Leeds draw are popular on YouTube, with Sky Sports’ highlights amassing 150,000 views.

“Why are Sunderland in the play-offs?”: Their top-six finish, driven by Clarke’s goals and Patterson’s saves, is analyzed on EFL’s YouTube channel, with fans citing their early-season form (4 wins in 5).

“Sunderland vs. Coventry play-off highlights”: The upcoming semi-final first leg on May 9, 2025, is trending, with X posts like @CitiSportsGHA hyping the clash.

“Sunderland’s recent form”: The five-game losing streak has sparked concern, with @Champchatpod24 noting it’s “far from ideal” for play-off preparation.

“Who is Sunderland’s top scorer?”: Clarke’s 15 goals lead, followed by Bellingham (8), with highlights of Clarke’s Leeds goal trending on YouTube.

Social Media Sentiment

X posts reflect mixed emotions:

@Champchatpod24 (May 4, 2025): Highlighted Sunderland’s late-season slump, stating, “It is far from ideal preparation for the play-offs!” with fans replying about needing a “reset.”

@CitiSportsGHA (May 3, 2025): Confirmed the play-off fixtures, asking, “Which team comes through?” with Sunderland fans optimistic about Clarke’s form.

@AdAmCpFc91 (May 4, 2025): Hyped the play-off semi-final, calling it a “🤤🤤🤤” clash, reflecting fan excitement. Reddit’s r/safc praised the club’s youth focus but criticized recent losses, with one user stating, “We’ve got the talent, but we need to finish chances.” YouTube comments on the Leeds draw highlight Clarke’s “magic” and Patterson’s “world-class” saves.

Broadcasting and Fan Engagement

Where to Watch

Sunderland’s Championship matches are broadcast in the UK on Sky Sports and Sky Sports+, with at least 20 games live, including the Cardiff opener and play-off semi-finals. The Sky Sports app and NOW TV offer streaming without a contract. In the US, ESPN+ streams select games, with Telemundo covering Spanish-language broadcasts. Globally, beIN Sports and DAZN air matches, with EFL’s YouTube channel posting highlights. FA Cup games are on BBC and ITV, while EFL Cup ties were on Sky Sports.

Ticket Information

Sunderland’s home games at the Stadium of Light, with a 53,259 capacity, have seen record attendance, with sell-outs for Burnley and Leeds. Tickets range from £20-£50, per safc.com, with play-off tickets expected to be in high demand. The club’s fan advisory board has ensured affordable pricing, with season tickets starting at £350.

Fan Atmosphere

The Stadium of Light’s “Roker Roar” has been electric, with 53,259 fans for the Sheffield Wednesday rout. Away support, like the 3,000 at Cardiff, has been vocal, with X posts praising the “sea of red and white.” The play-off semi-final against Coventry is expected to draw a full house, with fans on X urging a “12th-man” effort.

Historical Context and Championship Landscape

Sunderland’s Championship Journey

Relegated from the Premier League in 2017, Sunderland spent four seasons in League One (2018-22) before returning to the Championship in 2022-23. Their 2023-24 season saw them finish 16th, with 56 points, drawing the highest average home attendance (41,506). Le Bris’ arrival has sparked optimism, with the 2024-25 campaign their best chance at promotion since 2022-23’s play-off semi-final loss to Luton.

Championship Overview

The 2024-25 EFL Championship, the 9th under its current title, features 24 teams, with Leeds United clinching the title and Coventry City securing play-off promotion. Relegated Premier League sides Burnley, Luton Town, and Sheffield United joined promoted Portsmouth, Derby County, and Oxford United. Sheffield United’s two-point deduction for financial breaches has impacted their campaign.

Challenges and Controversies

Late-Season Form

Sunderland’s five consecutive losses—Swansea (0-1), Bristol City (1-2), Blackburn (0-1), Oxford (0-2), and QPR (0-1)—have raised doubts about their play-off readiness. Fans on X, like @Champchatpod24, worry about “momentum,” with Le Bris admitting to “finishing issues” in a Sky Sports interview.

Squad Depth

Injuries to Mayenda and Aji Alese, combined with limited senior signings, have stretched Sunderland’s squad. The reliance on youngsters like Rigg and Watson is a double-edged sword, with Reddit users praising their potential but noting “inexperience” in big moments.

Play-Off Pressure

The play-offs, dubbed “the richest game in football,” carry immense pressure, with promotion worth £170m. Sunderland’s 2022-23 semi-final loss to Luton lingers, with fans on X urging Le Bris to “get it right” against Coventry.

Betting and Fantasy Football Insights

Betting Trends

Sunderland are 2.50 underdogs to win the play-off semi-final first leg against Coventry, per Bet365, with Clarke a 3.00 anytime goalscorer pick. Their 54 goals make over 2.5 goals bets popular (1.90 odds). Promotion odds stand at 4.00, behind Leeds (1.80).

Fantasy Football Picks

In EFL Fantasy, Clarke (10.5 points average), Bellingham (8.2), and Patterson (7.8) are top picks, with Ballard’s set-piece threat (6.5) offering value. Sofascore’s Team of the Week regularly features Sunderland players, guiding selections.

Sunderland AFC’s 2024-25 Championship season has been a rollercoaster, with a top-six finish securing a play-off spot despite a late five-game losing streak. Their fixtures, from the 2-0 Cardiff win to the upcoming Coventry play-off semi-final on May 9, 2025, have captivated fans, with highlights dominating YouTube and X buzzing with anticipation. Régis Le Bris’ youthful squad, led by Jack Clarke and Jobe Bellingham, has reignited promotion dreams, with the Stadium of Light’s 53,259 fans providing unwavering support. As Sunderland prepare for the “richest game in football,” their fixtures tell a story of resilience, potential, and the relentless pursuit of Premier League glory. Whether they triumph at Wembley or regroup for 2025-26, the Black Cats’ 2024-25 campaign will be remembered as a defining chapter in their storied history.

Sources:

ESPN (www.espn.com, www.espn.co.uk, www.espn.in)

Sky Sports (www.skysports.com)

BBC Sport (www.bbc.co.uk, www.bbc.com)

Sunderland AFC Official Website (www.safc.com)

EFL Official Website (www.efl.com)

Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org)

We Are Sunderland (www.wearesunderland.com)

FAQs

Sunderland AFC, known as the Black Cats, are competing in the EFL Championship for the 2024/25 season. Here’s a comprehensive FAQ to keep you updated on their fixtures and match schedule.The Northern Echo

Upcoming Fixtures

What are Sunderland’s upcoming fixtures?

As of May 4, 2025, Sunderland’s next match is scheduled as follows:

Saturday, May 3, 2025 – Sunderland vs. Queens Park Rangers (QPR) at the Stadium of Light

This match marks the final round of the 2024/25 Championship season. Kick-off times are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the official Sunderland AFC website or trusted sports news sources for the most current information.Sunderland AFC Newswearesunderland.com

Full 2024/25 Fixture List

Where can I find the complete list of Sunderland’s fixtures for the 2024/25 season?

You can view the full fixture list on the official Sunderland AFC website or through reputable sports news outlets. For example, We Are Sunderland provides a detailed schedule.wearesunderland.com

Broadcast Information

Will Sunderland’s matches be broadcast live?

Many of Sunderland’s Championship matches are broadcast live on various sports networks. For international fans, platforms like ESPN and Sky Sports often provide live coverage and updates.ESPN.com+1Sky Sports+1

Matchday Experience

How can I attend Sunderland’s home matches?

Tickets for home matches at the Stadium of Light can be purchased through the official Sunderland AFC website. It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance, as popular fixtures may sell out quickly.

Season Overview

When does the 2024/25 Championship season start and end?

Start Date: Saturday, August 10, 2024 – Cardiff City (A)

End Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025 – Queens Park Rangers (H)The Northern Echo+1wearesunderland.com+1

The final round of fixtures is scheduled for May 3, 2025, with Sunderland hosting QPR at the Stadium of Light.Sunderland AFC News

Key Dates

What are some important dates for Sunderland fans this season?

Carabao Cup First Round: August 13/14, 2024

FA Cup Third Round: Dates to be confirmed

Transfer Window Open: January 1, 2025

Transfer Window Close: February 3, 2025

Championship Play-off Final: May 24–26, 2025Sunderland AFC News

Please note that dates are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check official sources for the most up-to-date information.

 Additional Information

Where can I get the latest updates on Sunderland’s fixtures and results?

For the most current information on Sunderland’s fixtures, results, and standings, visit the official Sunderland AFC website or trusted sports news outlets like The Northern Echo.The Northern Echo

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