Brighton vs Sunderland Prediction & Betting Tips (20 December)

Brighton and Sunderland meet in the Premier League with both sides carrying intriguing narratives into the clash. Brighton’s recent form has been mixed, highlighted by a 2-0 defeat away at Liverpool on December 13, where Hugo Ekitike struck twice for the Reds. Just days earlier, the Seagulls had drawn 1-1 at home against West Ham, following a thrilling but disappointing 4-3 loss to Aston Villa at the Amex. Their November fixtures showed more resilience, with a 2-0 win at Nottingham Forest and a 2-1 victory over Brentford. Brighton’s ability to bounce back after setbacks has been a recurring theme this season, and their supporters will be eager to see if they can rediscover consistency against Sunderland.

Sunderland, meanwhile, have been enjoying a spirited return to the Premier League, with December offering both highs and lows. They held Liverpool to a 1-1 draw at Anfield on December 3, a result that showcased their defensive grit. However, they were humbled 3-0 by Manchester City at the Etihad just days later, before bouncing back with a famous 1-0 victory in the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle on December 14, courtesy of Nick Woltemade’s own goal. Prior to that, Sunderland had staged a remarkable comeback against Bournemouth, winning 3-2 at home after trailing by two goals. Their resilience and ability to rise to big occasions have made them one of the more unpredictable sides in the league.

The last two months have also brought off-field developments that add context to this fixture. Brighton’s squad depth has been tested with injuries and rotation, while Sunderland received a boost when winger Simon Adingra was surprisingly left out of Ivory Coast’s AFCON squad, meaning he remains available during a busy winter schedule. Brighton’s upcoming fixtures against Arsenal and Manchester City underline the importance of securing points now, while Sunderland face Leeds and Fulham in what could be defining matches for their mid-table ambitions. Both clubs are navigating demanding schedules, and this encounter offers a chance to set the tone heading into the new year.

With Brighton hosting Sunderland at the Amex, the Seagulls will look to capitalize on home advantage and their attacking options. Sunderland’s defensive lapses against stronger sides like Manchester City suggest vulnerabilities that Brighton can exploit, especially with their pace and creativity in wide areas. Given Brighton’s recent ability to score multiple goals at home and Sunderland’s occasional struggles to keep clean sheets, the prediction leans toward a decisive outcome. The forecast is a commanding 3-0 victory for Brighton, a scoreline that would reaffirm their push for European contention while reminding Sunderland of the challenges that come with sustaining momentum in the Premier League.