Sunderland AFC Fixtures: Comprehensive 2025/26 Match Guide

Sunderland AFC fixtures for the 2025/26 season see the Black Cats competing in the Premier League for the first time in eight years. The schedule features 38 league matches, beginning with a home opener against West Ham United on August 16, 2025, and concluding with a home clash against Chelsea on May 24, 2026. Key dates for supporters include the Wear-Tyne derbies against Newcastle United, scheduled for December 13 at the Stadium of Light and March 21 at St. James’ Park. Additionally, the club is participating in the FA Cup, with a fourth-round tie against Oxford United set for February 15, 2026.

In this comprehensive guide, you will find a deep dive into every upcoming fixture, tactical previews for major rivals, ticketing information for the Stadium of Light, and broadcasting details for fans watching from home. Whether you are looking for festive period schedules or the final run-in dates, this authoritative resource covers all aspects of Sunderland’s return to the top flight.

Upcoming Sunderland Premier League Fixtures

Sunderland enters the second half of the 2025/26 campaign positioned in the mid-table, looking to solidify their Premier League status. The upcoming schedule in early 2026 is demanding, featuring high-profile matches against traditional “Big Six” clubs and crucial regional battles.

The team travels to the London Stadium to face West Ham United on January 24, 2026, followed by a home game against Burnley on February 2. These fixtures are viewed as vital opportunities to collect points before a grueling run that includes Arsenal away on February 7 and Liverpool at home on February 11.

Wear-Tyne Derby Schedule Details

The most anticipated fixtures in the Sunderland calendar are the clashes with local rivals Newcastle United. The first meeting of the season took place on December 14, 2025, resulting in a memorable 1-0 victory for the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light.

Fans are now looking ahead to the return leg at St. James’ Park, currently scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026. This match is expected to be moved to a Sunday or a specialized television slot as the date approaches, given its status as one of the most high-risk and high-interest games in English football.

FA Cup and Domestic Trophies

Sunderland’s journey in the 2025/26 FA Cup continues after a dramatic third-round victory over Everton, which was decided on penalties following a 1-1 draw. The fourth round sees the Lads traveling to face Oxford United at the Kassam Stadium on February 15, 2026.

Success in the FA Cup provides a secondary route to European qualification and remains a priority for manager Régis Le Bris. In contrast, the club’s EFL Cup (Carabao Cup) campaign ended prematurely in the second round following a penalty shootout loss to Huddersfield Town in August.

Stadium of Light Matchday Experience

The Stadium of Light remains one of the largest venues in the Premier League, with a capacity of 48,707 seats. Attendance has surged since the club’s promotion, with a season-high of 47,257 recorded during the January clash against Crystal Palace.

Home fixtures typically kick off at 3:00 PM on Saturdays, though television selections by Sky Sports and TNT Sports frequently move games to Friday nights, Sunday afternoons, or Monday evenings. Supporters are encouraged to check the official SAFC website 48 hours before any fixture to confirm final kick-off times.

Premier League Final Run-In 2026

The final month of the season will test Sunderland’s squad depth as they face several teams fighting for European spots. April 2026 begins with a home game against Tottenham Hotspur on the 11th, followed by a trip to Villa Park to face Aston Villa on the 18th.

The season concludes with three critical fixtures in May: Wolves (A) on May 2, Manchester United (H) on May 9, and a final away day at Everton on May 17. The campaign officially wraps up on May 24, 2026, when Chelsea visits Wearside for a 4:00 PM kick-off, a match that could have significant implications for the final league table.

Practical Information and Planning

Attending a Sunderland AFC match requires forward planning, especially with the increased demand for Premier League tickets.

• Opening Hours: The Stadium of Light ticket office is generally open Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and from 9:00 AM until kick-off on matchdays.
• Ticket Prices: Category A games (vs. Man Utd, Liverpool, etc.) start around £45 for adults, while Category B games (vs. Burnley, Fulham) are priced from £32.
• Transport: The stadium is easily accessible via the Tyne and Wear Metro (St. Peter’s or Stadium of Light stations). Matchday park-and-ride services operate from the Sunderland Enterprise Park.
• What to Expect: A passionate atmosphere with “Sunderland ’til I Die” echoing through the stands. Security checks are thorough, so arrive at least 60 minutes before kick-off.
• Tips: Join the SAFC membership scheme to get priority access to away tickets, which often sell out within minutes of being released to season ticket holders.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next Sunderland vs Newcastle match? 

The next Wear-Tyne derby is scheduled for March 21, 2026, at St. James’ Park, though the time is subject to change for TV.

How much are Sunderland tickets for the 2025/26 season? 

Prices vary by opponent but typically range from £32 to £58 for general admission, while premium hospitality seats can exceed £400 for top-tier matches.

Where can I watch Sunderland matches on TV in the UK? 

Premier League matches are split between Sky Sports, TNT Sports, and Amazon Prime Video; FA Cup games are aired on BBC and ITV.

What time is the Sunderland match today? 

Kick-off times vary; Saturday games are usually 3:00 PM, but you should check the official SAFC fixtures page for the most current schedule.

Can I buy Sunderland away tickets? 

Away tickets are primarily sold to season ticket holders with high loyalty point balances; any remaining tickets rarely reach general sale.

Is the Stadium of Light cashless? 

Yes, the Stadium of Light operates as a fully cashless venue for all food, drink, and merchandise purchases.

How do I get to the Stadium of Light from Newcastle? 

The easiest way is via the Tyne and Wear Metro, taking a South Hylton-bound train to either St. Peter’s or the Stadium of Light station.

What are the festive fixtures for Sunderland? 

The 2025 festive period included matches against Brighton (Dec 20), Leeds (Dec 27), and Manchester City (Dec 30).

Who is the current manager of Sunderland AFC? 

Régis Le Bris is the head coach leading the Black Cats through their 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

Where is the final game of the season played? 

Sunderland will play their final match of the 2025/26 season at home against Chelsea at the Stadium of Light.

Are there any Friday night games scheduled? 

TV broadcasters often select matches for Friday night slots; check the monthly TV selection announcements for updates.

Final Thoughts

Sunderland AFC’s 2025/26 Premier League campaign has been a historic return to the top flight. Currently sitting in the top half of the table following a 2–1 win over Crystal Palace on January 17, the Black Cats face a high-stakes run-in through the spring of 2026. This summary highlights the key remaining fixtures, cup dates, and the highly anticipated second Wear-Tyne derby.

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