Match Details
Sunderland will travel to Portman Road on Saturday 22 August 2026 for the opening match of the Premier League season against Ipswich Town. Tickets are sold out, and there is no full-live match coverage on television or online. Fans can listen to the live commentary on BBC Radio Newcastle. The Roker Report Twitter feed (@RokerReport) will provide a blow-by-blow account, and player ratings will be posted on www.RokerReport.sbnation.com after the final whistle.
Historical Context
Sunderland finished seventh in the top-flight last season and will be competing in the Europa League for the first time in club history. This is the second time Sunderland has begun a season after finishing seventh; the previous occasion also saw the club replicate the feat. Ipswich Town were promoted from the Championship and finished fifth last season, securing a second consecutive Premier League campaign. The two clubs last met on 13 January 2024 in the Championship, with Ipswich winning 2-1. Sunderland’s manager, Gary O’Neil, has departed, and Liam Rosenior was the previous manager before O’Neil’s exit. Ipswich’s manager, Kieran McKenna, left after promotion, a move that mirrors the departure of former Sunderland & Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy.
Betting Odds
Bookmakers have set the odds at 6/4 for Sunderland to win, 17/10 for Ipswich to take all three points, and 11/5 for a draw.
Head-to-Head
In all competitions, Sunderland have drawn six times against Ipswich, while Ipswich have won 17 times. Sunderland have scored 27 goals in the fixtures, whereas Ipswich have scored 59.
Prediction
Sunderland are tipped to start the season with a win.
