With both sides locked in a battle at differnt ends of the Premier League table, The Hammers welcome The Black Cats to London Stadium for a crucial clash. Sunderland, with their impressive defensive record, travel south to face a West Ham side desperate to halt their slide down the table. Kick-off is scheduled for 12:30 GMT on Saturday 24th January 2026, with all the action available live on TNT Sports 1. Below, you’ll find our expert match preview, value betting tips, and a detailed analysis of what to expect.
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | Premier League |
| Matchday | 23 |
| Date | Saturday 24 January 2026 |
| Kick-off Time | 12:30 GMT |
| Venue | London Stadium |
| Broadcast | Sky Sports Main Event |
| Market | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Draw | ★★★☆☆ |
| Correct Score | 1-1 | ★★★☆☆ |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | ★★★★☆ |
| Over/Under 2.5 Goals | Under | ★★★☆☆ |
Analysis: Both clubs have struggled to string together wins, but Sunderland’s robust defence (just 23 goals conceded and 7 clean sheets) should frustrate a West Ham side that averages only 1.09 goals per game. The Hammers, meanwhile, have not managed to keep teams out (44 conceded), but their attacking output is nearly identical to Sunderland’s. Sunderland have drawn 9 of 22 league matches this season, and these sides also shared the spoils in one of their two last meetings. A stalemate offers strong value given both teams’ profiles and the high number of draws in recent Sunderland games.
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Player Prop Bet: Callum Wilson Anytime Goalscorer
Analysis: With West Ham’s defence leaking goals (conceding 44 in 22 matches), their vulnerability is clear. Wilson, a proven top-flight striker, remains a consistent threat and is likely to lead the line. Sunderland’s backline, strong as it is, does concede chances and West Ham’s xG (24.76) suggests they are creating at a rate that could pay off. Wilson’s movement in the box and penalty-taking duties give this bet extra appeal at a solid price.
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West Ham are 18th in the table, with just 4 wins from 22 matches and a worrying -20 goal difference. They have managed only 24 goals, while conceding 44 – the second-worst defensive record in the division. The Hammers’ recent form is troubling, with only one clean sheet all season and a tendency to leak goals under pressure.
Sunderland, on the other hand, are 9th, having won 8, drawn 9, and lost just 5 times. Their defence has been the bedrock of their campaign: 23 goals conceded, 7 clean sheets, and an average of just 1 goal against per match. Offensively, they’re not prolific (23 goals scored), but their underlying metrics (23.34 xG) suggest steady chance creation.
The Hammers under Nuno Espírito Santo typically favour a 3-4-1-2 or 3-5-2, seeking to play out from the back but often left exposed in transition. Their pass accuracy is solid (79.76%) and they average 43% possession, but defensive lapses and missed big chances (23 missed) have cost them dearly.
The Black Cats, led by Régis Le Bris, set up with a 4-3-3, prioritising defensive structure and quick transitions. Their 43.29% possession mirrors West Ham’s, but their defensive shape is far superior. Sunderland create more big chances (25) but are wasteful in front of goal (25 missed), indicating a need for sharper finishing. Expect Sunderland to sit deep and hit on the counter, making use of wide areas and set pieces.
| Statistic | West Ham | Sunderland |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | 18th | 9th |
| Goals Scored | 24 | 23 |
| Goals Conceded | 44 | 23 |
| Clean Sheets | 1 | 7 |
| Shot Accuracy (%) | 38.35 | 38.06 |
| Pass Accuracy (%) | 79.76 | 78.88 |
| xG (Expected Goals) | 24.76 | 23.34 |
| Big Chances Created | 19 | 25 |
| Date | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 16 August 2025 | Sunderland 3-0 West Ham | Premier League |
| 15 April 2017 | Sunderland 2-2 West Ham | Premier League |
| No further meetings in the last five seasons | ||
Roefs has been one of the standout stoppers in the top flight this season. With 74 saves and 7 clean sheets, he’s directly responsible for The Black Cats’ superb defensive numbers. His distribution isn’t the crispest (63.38% pass accuracy), but his shot-stopping and command of the box make him a formidable last line of defence. In a match where West Ham are likely to rack up attempts, Roefs’ agility and decision-making could once again prove decisive. His presence gives Sunderland a real edge in tight contests.
Q: Who is the favourite to win the West Ham vs. Sunderland match?
A: Based on current form and defensive records, Sunderland have the edge. However, the match is expected to be close, with a draw also likely given both teams’ attacking struggles.
Q: What are the best betting odds for this match?
A: The most attractive selections are Draw (Full-Time Result), 1-1 Correct Score, and Callum Wilson Anytime Goalscorer.
Q: Where can I watch the West Ham vs. Sunderland match?
A: The game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event.
This is a classic relegation six-pointer, with Sunderland’s defensive discipline up against a West Ham side desperate to find form. The Black Cats have conceded just 23 goals and boast 7 clean sheets, while The Hammers’ defensive woes continue with 44 conceded. Both teams create chances at similar rates, but their finishing has often let them down. The draw looks the standout value bet, with a likely scoreline of 1-1. For punters seeking a player angle, Callum Wilson to score at 5/2 is worth consideration against a shaky Sunderland backline. Expect a low-scoring, hard-fought encounter.
All betting odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change. Please gamble responsibly. For more information and support, visit BeGambleAware.org. You must be 18 or over to gamble.
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