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Standing in City’s way to start the new year is a Sunderland side boasting one of the league’s strongest home records, having not lost on Wearside all season.
However, the Black Cats’ resilience will be severely tested after losing six first-team players to Africa Cup of Nations duty, leaving them stretched against arguably the division’s most ruthless travelling side.
Sunderland v Manchester City tips
• Manchester City to win – 21/50 with Bet365
• Over 1.5 total goals – 1/5 with Bet365
• Phil Foden to have 2+ shots – 2/5 with Bet365
Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at the time of publication and subject to change.
Manchester City to win
City’s form heading into the new year is ominous for the rest of the league. Guardiola’s men have won six consecutive Premier League matches and have claimed victory in 18 of their last 19 opening league fixtures of a calendar year, including the last 13 in a row.
While Sunderland’s unbeaten home record deserves respect, context matters. The Black Cats have won just two of their 11 games against sides starting this round 13th or higher, and their squad depth has been severely weakened by AFCON call-ups.
City, meanwhile, have lost just one of their last 30 away league matches against newly promoted sides (W23, D6) and have won the last seven Premier League H2Hs against Sunderland, including a 3-0 success earlier this season.
Tip: Manchester City to win @ 21/50
Bet explanation: This bet wins if Manchester City beats Sunderland regardless of the score.
Over 1.5 total goals
This fixture has consistently delivered goals when City are involved. Guardiola’s side have scored in 32 consecutive Premier League matches played in January, the longest such run in top-flight history, while their games this season have averaged well over three goals per match.
Sunderland’s home matches have often been cagey early, but City’s quality usually tells after the break. The Cityzens have also conceded nine of their 11 away league goals after half-time, highlighting how games tend to open up late.
Given City’s attacking depth and Sunderland’s defensive absentees, it’s difficult to envision a scenario where this contest finishes with fewer than two goals.
Tip: Over 1.5 total goals @ 1/5
Bet explanation: This bet wins if there are 2 or more goals in the game between Sunderland and Manchester City.
Phil Foden to play 2+ shots
Few players arrive in better individual form than Phil Foden. The England international has recorded 2+ shots in four of his last five Premier League games against newly promoted sides, scoring five goals in that same span.
With Sunderland likely to defend deep and City dominating possession, Foden’s tendency to drift into central shooting zones should see him heavily involved.
Against a weakened Sunderland side, backing Foden to register multiple attempts looks a solid angle.
Tip: Phil Foden to play 2+ shots @ 2/5
Bet explanation: This bet wins if Phil Foden plays two or more shots against Sunderland.
Sunderland v Manchester City odds
• Sunderland - 6/1 with Bet365
• Draw - 15/4 with Bet365
• Manchester City win - 21/50 with Bet365
Odds, correct at the time of publication, are subject to change.
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The odds, correct at the time of publication, are subject to change.