Tottenham Hotspur vs. Sunderland: Season Impact Preview, Team News, and Streaming Guide

Tottenham Hotspur will host Sunderland at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on January 3rd, 2026, in a Premier League clash with significant implications for both teams’ seasons. Spurs are looking to solidify their position in the top four, while Sunderland are battling to stay clear of the relegation zone. This match promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both sides eager to secure a crucial three points.

Tottenham Hotspur vs. Sunderland: Season-Defining Match Preview

Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham have enjoyed a generally positive season so far, characterized by attacking football and a willingness to take risks. However, inconsistency has crept in recently, with dropped points against lower-table opposition. Sunderland, under Michael Beale, are fighting for their Premier League lives, showing resilience but struggling for consistent goalscoring form. This match represents a chance for both teams to kickstart the new year with a vital victory.

Tottenham Hotspur Team News and Expected Lineup

Tottenham will be without key midfielder James Maddison, who is still recovering from his ankle injury. Club sources suggest that defender Micky van de Ven is also a doubt. However, Richarlison is expected to lead the line after his recent goalscoring form. The expected lineup is likely to be: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Dier, Udogie; Bissouma, Bentancur; Kulusevski, Richarlison, Son; Johnson.

Sunderland Team News and Potential Starting XI

Sunderland have their own injury concerns, with key striker Ross Stewart still sidelined. According to reports, winger Patrick Roberts is also a doubt. Beale is likely to opt for a compact and organized approach, relying on counter-attacks. A potential starting XI for Sunderland could be: Patterson; Hume, O’Nien, Ballard, Alese; Neil, Ekwah; Clarke, Pritchard, Ba; Hemir.

Tactical Analysis: Spurs’ Attack vs. Sunderland’s Defense

Tottenham will likely dominate possession and look to break down Sunderland’s defense with their fluid attacking movements. According to league data, Spurs average 61% possession at home this season. Sunderland will need to be disciplined and organized in their defensive shape, looking to exploit any turnovers and launch quick counter-attacks. Based on recent trends, Sunderland have struggled to create clear-cut chances away from home, averaging less than 1 xG per game.

Estimated stats:

• Possession: 62% vs 38%
• Shots on target: 7 vs 3
• Expected Goals (xG): 2.1 vs 0.8

How to Watch Tottenham Hotspur vs. Sunderland Live

The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Premier League in the UK. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM GMT. Streaming options are available through Sky Go for subscribers. Check local listings for international broadcast details.

What This Means for Both Teams: A Season Impact Analysis

A win for Tottenham is crucial to maintain their Champions League qualification ambitions. Dropping points here would allow rivals like Manchester United and Arsenal to close the gap. For Sunderland, a victory would provide a massive boost in their fight against relegation, potentially lifting them out of the danger zone. A draw would be a decent result for Sunderland, but a disappointment for Spurs. I predict a 2-1 victory for Tottenham, but Sunderland will make them work hard for it. Spurs’ attacking quality should eventually prevail, but Sunderland’s determination will make it a close contest. The key battle will be between Tottenham’s attacking midfielders and Sunderland’s defensive midfielders – whichever group wins that battle will likely dictate the outcome of the match.

Match FAQs

Will James Maddison play for Tottenham against Sunderland?

No, James Maddison is still recovering from his ankle injury and is not expected to feature in the match.

What is Sunderland’s recent form like?

Sunderland’s recent form has been inconsistent, with a mix of wins and losses. They are currently battling to avoid relegation.

Where is the Tottenham Hotspur vs. Sunderland match being played?

The match is being played at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.

What time does the match kick off?

The match kicks off at 3:00 PM GMT on January 3rd, 2026.

This analysis is based on match observation and recent team performances.