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Sunderland vs Liverpool Predictions: Odds, Tips and Match Preview

The Premier League returns with midweek action for us to enjoy. A full complement of fixtures is set, and among them is the intriguing clash between Sunderland and Liverpool at the Stadium of Light. With fans afforded another opportunity to enjoy football betting on their favourite teams, we suggest keeping an eye out for the odd football betting promo code amidst all of this action.

Ryan Liberty
Ryan Liberty

Last updated: 2026-02-09

Chad Nagel

5 minutes read

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Craig Pawson speaks to players during the Premier League

Craig Pawson speaks to players during the Premier League / Getty Images

Sunderland will no doubt be incredibly pleased with how they have managed this season. They have shown a degree of resilience when playing at home this season and have given themselves a serious chance at survival. They will have a go at Liverpool here, make no mistake, it's what their fans expect, and it's how they have found success throughout the season so far. 

For Liverpool, they come into the fixture off the back of a Premier League defeat to Manchester City. They will still need to push for European qualification, and so winning here becomes a must for Arne Slot’s side. 

Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability – Liverpool Favoured on the Road

Liverpool come into the game as clear favourites, but don’t overlook Sunderland’s home form. 

  1. Home (Sunderland): 11/2 (6.50) – 15.4%

  2. Draw: 7/2 (4.50) – 22.2%

  3. Away (Liverpool): 2/5 (1.40) – 71.4%
    Odds courtesy of 1Win, subject to change. 

H2H Record

This is a look at the last three meetings between these two sides in all competitions. 

  1. 2025: Liverpool 1-1 Sunderland

  2. 2017: Sunderland 2-2 Liverpool 

  3. 2016: Liverpool 2-0 Sunderland 

Sunderland Current Form – WWLWL

Sunderland have seemingly enjoyed life back in the Premier League. They have picked up vital points in the Premier League when playing at home and have given an incredible account of themselves even when playing the so-called big hitters. 

They have arguably struggled with consistency since the turn of the year, but that would have always been a possibility given their over-reliance on certain players – think Granit Xhaka. 

When playing in front of their home crowd, the Black Cats have shown a desire to press aggressively and make the game a rather open affair. Whether or not this will be the approach against Liverpool remains to be seen, but given the insecurities their opponents have faced this season as well, a strong defensive showing with their now trademarked transitional play might bring the Black Cats into this encounter even further. 

Key Players to Watch

  • Brian Brobbey 
    One of the host side's most dangerous attacking options. His pace and ability to play direct football aren’t necessarily among the best in the game, but his consistency and commitment to making life difficult for opposing defenders will likely see him play a crucial role here. 
  • Habib Diarra
    A true midfield engine. His work rate and ability to disrupt play through the midfield is going to be vital here. We all know the rhythm and fluidity Liverpool are able to play with at times; it will likely be Diarra tasked with keeping that area tight. Keep an eye on him here. 
  • Trai Hume 
    He has endeared himself to the faithful at the Stadium of Light rather effortlessly. His fearless approach to playing football and willingness to drive his side up the pitch and into attacking moments will surely be key here. He is, without question, one to keep watch over. 

Sunderland Team News

Sunderland come into the fixture with quite a number of injuries to their squad. Noah Sadiki is contending with a knock, Ian Poveda and Betrand Traore must navigate injuries to their legs, and their biggest miss is arguably Grant Xhaka. Xhaka has been immense this season and has an ankle injury. 

Liverpool Current Form – WLWWL

Liverpool will travel to Wearside and likely go into the game as favourites, but their inconsistent form and inability to put games to bed this season are still cause for concern. Yes, they are a side who are able to control games, remain defensively sound, and go forward with pace and intention, but when they fail to put opponents to bed, they end up paying the price for it later on. 

For everyone at Anfield, European qualification is still something they must push for, and against a Sunderland side not able to field their strongest side, Slot’s men will fancy their chances. 

Key Players to Watch – Liverpool

  • Mohamed Salah
    There can be little doubt that he is still the talisman at Liverpool. His movement, pace, strength, and ability to finish see him remain as a constant threat, and should Sunderland choose to be compact and defensively narrow, it’s the likes of Salah Liverpool will look to unlock space. 
  • Dominik Szoboszlai
    A midfielder able to drive his side forward, produce creativity in intricate space, and possess a lethal shot of his own – what more do you need? He is certainly one to keep an eye on here. 
  • Virgil van Dijk 
    Liverpool’s leader and defensive wall, Van Dijk, has once again proved his worth in gold for Liverpool, but he will know that they face a side capable of playing through the line quickly and asking questions of their defensive system. 

Liverpool Team News

Liverpool have a host of injuries to contend with here. Joe Gomez remains sidelined for a hip injury, Jeremie Frimpong is out with a hamstring strain, Connor Bradley misses out due to a knee injury, and Alexander Isak will miss this fixture as he is still recovering from a broken leg sustained earlier this season. 

Predicted Line-Up

  1. Sunderland 
    Roefs, Mukiele, Ballard, Alderete, Mandava, Diarra, Sadiki, Hume, Le Fee, Talbi, Brobbey.

  2. Liverpool 
    Alisson, Kerkez, van Dijk, Konate, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Gakpo, Wirtz, Salah, Ekitike

Suggested Bets

Here are our best bets for this Premier League encounter 

  1. Liverpool to Win & Over 2.5 Goals: Liverpool’s attacking form suggests goals, and their quality should tell. (4/5 with Betway).

  2. Both Teams to Score – Yes: Sunderland often score at home, even in defeat, back both teams to score here. (21/20 with Pinnacle)

Value Bets

For punters with a greater appetite for risk, consider our value bets for this encounter. 

  1. Mohamed Salah – Anytime Goalscorer: Penalties and open-play chances boost his value, don’t miss out on this opportunity. (6/5 with BetWinner).

  2. First Team to Score – Liverpool: Early pressure by Liverpool could pay dividends here. (2/5 with Stake)

Sunderland vs Liverpool Prediction: Liverpool + Both Teams to Score (Yes)

As much as Sunderland has been impressive at home, they are without some of their big players, who have made all the difference this season. Liverpool will know that they come into this counter needing to win, and with the depth of their squad, it is difficult to see past them here. 

Sunderland will have moments, but ultimately, we think that Liverpool will be too strong here. 

Ryan Liberty
Ryan LibertyBetting Writer

Ryan Liberty is an experienced sports writer whose articles have featured in some of the biggest sports publications in South Africa. With a strong understanding of all major sports and an in-depth understanding of betting, Ryan consistently delivers insightful content. He's also known for his ability to break down complex topics into engaging, reader-friendly pieces.