Relegation-threatened Spurs face Sunderland as De Zerbi steps in.

Sunderland vs Tottenham kicks off at 14:00 [GMT+1] on Sunday, April 12, at the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland AFC host Tottenham Hotspur at the Stadium of Light in a Premier League clash that brings together two sides experiencing very different kinds of pressure. Sunderland will take encouragement from their 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture while aiming to avoid defeat in both league meetings with Spurs for the first time since the 2008-09 season. Recent form suggests some improvement, with two wins in their last three matches—matching their total from the previous 12 games combined [LDWLW]. That uptick in results hints at growing confidence, particularly as they look to build momentum toward the end of the season. However, their home form remains a concern. Sunderland have lost their last three Premier League matches at the Stadium of Light, and another defeat would mark their worst home losing run in the top flight since 2013. Turning their home ground back into a source of points will be crucial if they are to maintain any upward trajectory. A 4—1—4—1 with Brian Brobbey in attack is expected against Spurs.

Relegation-threatened Tottenham [LLLDL], meanwhile, arrive in the midst of a prolonged slump with new manager Roberto De Zerbi slipping into the managerial seat following Igor Tudor’s exit. Spurs are only one point above the bottom three and are winless in their last 13 Premier League matches (D5 L8), their worst run in decades, with only one longer winless streak in their entire league history dating back to the 1930s. This run has severely dented their season and placed increasing scrutiny on performances and consistency. Despite this poor run, Tottenham’s record against Sunderland remains strong. They are unbeaten in their last 15 Premier League meetings with the Black Cats (W10 D5), a streak that stretches back to 2010. This historical dominance could provide a psychological boost, even as their current form raises doubts. One intriguing aspect of Tottenham’s campaign is their reliance on away performances. Two-thirds of their points this season have come on the road, highlighting a team that has paradoxically been more effective away than at home. This could offer some optimism heading into this fixture, despite their overall struggles. From a tactical standpoint, Spurs have been particularly dangerous from set-pieces, with 35% of their goals coming from non-penalty dead-ball situations. This could be a key avenue against a Sunderland side that has shown defensive vulnerabilities, especially during their recent home defeats. A 4—2—3—1 formation with Richarlison in attack is expected against Sunderland.