Sunderland extended their impressive return to the Premier League with a determined goalless draw away at Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday 20 December 2025. The result sees the Black Cats take their tally to 27 points from 17 games, maintaining a three-point cushion over the Seagulls in the table.
A Stalemate at the Amex
The first top-flight meeting between these two sides proved to be a tight, often forgettable affair, with clear-cut chances at a premium. Sunderland, buoyed by last weekend's derby victory over Newcastle United, set up to be solid and disciplined. Brighton, meanwhile, were looking to end a winless run that was stretched to four matches by this result, leading to some discontent from the home support at the final whistle.
The best opportunity of the match fell to Sunderland defender Omar Alderete just after half-time. His powerful header from an Enzo Le Fee cross was superbly tipped onto the crossbar by Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. For the hosts, midfielder Yasin Ayari was the main culprit in front of goal, spurning several opportunities, including blazing over when unmarked in the box.
Key Moments and Missed Chances
The opening period was largely uneventful, though Sunderland keeper Robin Roefs was alert to deny Mats Wieffer early on. Brighton's new centre-back pairing of Olivier Boscagli and Diego Coppola, necessitated by changes after a loss to Liverpool, held firm for the most part, with Coppola making a crucial block to deny Brian Brobbey.
As the game wore on, Brighton's frustration grew with their lack of creativity. Ayari continued to misfire, dragging another effort wide from the edge of the area. Sunderland survived late penalty appeals when a cross struck Granit Xhaka's arm, and substitute Romaine Mundle forced Verbruggen into a save at the other end. In added time, stand-in Brighton captain Georginio Rutter fired straight at Roefs, sealing the share of the points.
What This Result Means
For manager Regis Le Bris and his Sunderland side, this represents another excellent point on the road in what has been a fantastic campaign following promotion. They now look ahead to ending a memorable 2025 with a home fixture against Leeds United next weekend. For Brighton, the search for a win continues, with pressure mounting after a disappointing December so far. Both sides were affected by call-ups for the Africa Cup of Nations, with Sunderland's Simon Adingra facing his former club as one of four changes.
