Sunderland are looking to build on their impressive finish to last season, where they secured a spot in the Europa League and finished seventh in the Premier League. With a strong squad and a new season just around the corner, the Black Cats are looking to exceed expectations and make a push for European competition. ## What happened last season? Sunderland's 2025/26 season was a remarkable one, with the team finishing seventh in the Premier League and securing a spot in the Europa League. They had a strong finish to the season, with a 2-1 win over Chelsea on May 24th, and are looking to build on that momentum. ## Why it matters for Sunderland The Black Cats are looking to make a push for European competition, and their strong finish to last season has given them a good foundation to build on. They have a talented squad and a new season just around the corner, and are looking to exceed expectations and make a real push for the top six. ## What comes next? Sunderland's next fixture is against Ipswich on August 22nd, and they will be looking to get off to a strong start to the new season. They have a tough schedule ahead of them, but with a strong squad and a good foundation to build on, they are looking to make a real push for European competition. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 7th in Premier League, 54 pts, 14W-12D-12L from 38 games, recent form WWDDL. Goals this season: 42 scored, 48 conceded (-6 goal difference). Title race: 31 points behind leaders Arsenal. Last result: Sunderland 2-1 Chelsea (2026-05-24). Recent form (last 5): 4W-1D-0L (WWWWD, most recent first); on a 4-game winning run. Next fixture: vs Ipswich (away, 2026-08-22).