The stage is set for a dramatic Championship play-off semi-final second leg as Sunderland host Coventry City at the Stadium of Light (kick-off 8pm). After a thrilling 2-1 victory in the first leg, the Black Cats hold a slender advantage, but Frank Lampard’s Coventry side arrive determined to overturn the deficit and book a trip to Wembley.
Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland enter the match buoyed by late goals from Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda, whose 88th-minute winner in the first leg gives the Black Cats a vital edge. Sunderland will be boosted by the return of Romaine Mundle from injury, though he is expected to start on the bench, with Dan Ballard’s commanding defensive display securing his place in the starting XI. The likely lineup will see Isidor and Mayenda lead the line, supported by a midfield featuring Patrick Roberts and Jobe Bellingham (Jude’s brother). Sunderland’s resilience and counter-attacking threat have been key strengths, and Le Bris has insisted his team will not simply defend their lead.
Coventry must score to keep their promotion hopes alive. The Sky Blues are hampered by injuries to Norman Bassette and Victor Torp, limiting their attacking and midfield options. Lampard is expected to field a more attacking lineup, with Haji Wright, Jack Rudoni, and Tatsuhiro Sakamoto tasked with breaking down Sunderland’s defence[2]. Coventry are likely to set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming for balance between structure and attacking impetus.
Sunderland are favourites to progress, with bookmakers heavily backing them to reach Wembley. With everything on the line, expect a tense, fiercely-contested encounter as both clubs chase a coveted place in the play-off final against Sheffield United.
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