Sunderland vs. Chelsea Picks – Betting Preview, Team News, and Predictions (May 24) 

• When: Sunday, May 24, 2026. 11:00 AM ET
• Where: Stadium of Light, Sunderland, England
• How to Watch: NBC

Sunderland vs. Chelsea Preview

A pivotal clash on the final day of the English Premier League season is set for the Stadium of Light, as direct contenders for a European position collide. Chelsea will secure at least a Europa Conference League place with an away win against in-form Sunderland.

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Sunderland Stats & Team News

It can’t be understated how good a job Regis Le Bris has done this season. Sunderland were among the favorites for the drop before a ball was kicked, but a win on Sunday could secure a memorable European finish. The Black Cats have enjoyed a reliable end to the season, going three without defeat.

They have also been excellent at the Stadium of Light throughout the season, losing just four of their 18 fixtures. Defensively, they have been strong at home, allowing just 1.06 goals per game. The Black Cats will be without the suspended Daniel Ballard on Sunday, while Omar Alderete is unlikely to feature.

Likely Line-Up:

(4-2-3-1): Roefs (GK); Geertruida, Mukiele, O’Nien, Mandava; Sadiki, Xhaka; Hume, le Fee, Angulo; Brobbey

Chelsea Stats & Team News

An exciting week off the field saw Xabi Alonso appointed as the new Chelsea manager, sparking a return to form on the field and a 2-1 win against Tottenham. That was the perfect response by the Blues after going seven league matches without a win, and also losing the 2026 FA Cup final.

It could be argued that Chelsea have been more reliable on their travels since the turn of the year, losing just three of their nine compared to four home defeats in their previous five at Stamford Bridge. Enzo Fernandez has a star performer on their return to winning ways, scoring and making an assist.

Likely Line-Up:

(4-2-3-1): Sanchez (GK); James, Fofana, Hato, Cucurella; Santos, Caicedo; Palmer, Fernandez, Neto; Pedro

Head-to-Head Trends

• Sunderland have won two of their last four head-to-head meetings with Chelsea.
• Chelsea have won just once on their last three trips to the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland vs. Chelsea Picks

Chelsea’s return to form is notable, but they are incredibly short given their poor run of results since the start of March. Sunderland will be boosted by playing in front of their home fans, and their excellent head-to-head record against the Blues at the Stadium of Light could ensure that they are the value play.

• Sunderland @ +260 with BetOnline