Preview & Prediction: Burnley vs Sunderland

Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM ET (15:00 UK)
Venue: Turf Moor, Burnley
Broadcast Information: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (US)

Burnley host Sunderland at Turf Moor in a Matchweek 2 clash that pits two sides with contrasting fortunes against each other in the 2025-26 Premier League season. Burnley, under Scott Parker, are eager to bounce back after a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham in their opener, with their high-pressing style and reliance on James Trafford’s goalkeeping under scrutiny. Sunderland, managed by Régis Le Bris, started with a 2-0 win over Leeds United, showcasing their defensive solidity and the attacking spark of Jobe Bellingham. This matchup features Burnley’s physical, direct approach against Sunderland’s disciplined counter-attacking setup, with key battles in midfield likely to shape the outcome. Turf Moor’s passionate crowd will create a cauldron-like atmosphere, urging Burnley to avoid an early-season stumble while Sunderland aim to build on their promising start. Expect a gritty, competitive encounter with both teams desperate for points.

Insights

• Burnley’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham exposed defensive lapses, conceding twice from set pieces. They won 10 of 19 home games in the Championship in 2024-25, earning promotion.
• Sunderland’s 2-0 victory over Leeds highlighted their counter-attacking threat, with Bellingham and Jack Clarke combining effectively. They won three of their last six away games in 2024-25.
• Burnley’s 4-2-3-1 setup focuses on high pressing, with Lyle Foster leading the line and Josh Brownhill driving midfield. Sunderland’s 4-3-3 emphasizes defensive structure, with Dan Neil anchoring midfield.
• Brownhill vs. Bellingham in midfield will be pivotal, as Burnley’s captain seeks to control tempo against Sunderland’s dynamic youngster.
• Burnley won their last home game against Sunderland 2-1 in the 2022-23 Championship season. Sunderland have not won at Turf Moor since 2016.
• A win could kickstart Burnley’s Premier League campaign after promotion, while Sunderland aim to solidify their mid-table ambitions.
• Burnley’s Jay Rodriguez is doubtful with a calf strain, while Sunderland’s new signing Aaron Connolly is pushing for a start after a substitute appearance.
• Turf Moor’s vocal fans will create an intense atmosphere, with Sunderland’s traveling supporters hoping to disrupt the home momentum.

Match Forecasts

• Lyle Foster could exploit Sunderland’s center-backs with his work rate, potentially scoring from crosses or loose balls in the box.
• Sunderland’s Jack Clarke, with his pace and dribbling, may trouble Burnley’s full-backs, especially if they push forward aggressively.
• Burnley’s set-piece routines, led by Brownhill, could target Sunderland’s average aerial defending, which conceded four goals from corners in 2024-25.
• Substitutes like Burnley’s Zeki Amdouni or Sunderland’s Patrick Roberts could swing the game, offering fresh legs in the final stages.
• Burnley’s high defensive line may be vulnerable to Sunderland’s quick transitions, particularly through Clarke and Bellingham.
• Expect a physical, high-intensity game early, with Burnley pressing hard and Sunderland absorbing pressure before countering.
• If level late, Burnley’s home crowd could inspire a decisive moment, but Sunderland’s resilience makes them dangerous on the break.

Match Facts

• Burnley have won three of six matches against Sunderland in all competitions since 2016, with two draws and one loss.
• Turf Moor, capacity 21,944, saw Burnley lose only four home games in the 2024-25 Championship, making it a tough venue.
• Referee Craig Pawson, officiating this match, averaged 4.1 yellow cards per game in 2024-25 and officiated Burnley’s 1-0 win over Sheffield United last season.
• Sky Sports will broadcast live in the UK, with coverage starting at 14:30 UK. Peacock streams the match in the US at 10:00 AM ET.
• Burnley’s weather forecast predicts overcast skies, 17°C (63°F), with a 20% chance of light rain, unlikely to affect play.
• A Burnley win would mark their 50th Premier League victory at Turf Moor. Sunderland are chasing their 100th top-flight win since 2007.
• Josh Brownhill is one goal shy of 20 Premier League goals for Burnley, a milestone he could reach in this match.