Manchester City suffered a setback at the top of the Premier League table with a 0-0 draw at AFC Sunderland. For the Skyblues, this also ended their run of eight consecutive competitive wins at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland coach Regis Le Bris decided to make a change after the 1-1 draw with Leeds United: Mayenda started on the right wing in place of Riggs (bench).
City coach Pep Guardiola rotated two positions compared to the 2-1 win at Nottingham Forest. Aké and Savinho started in place of Gvardiol and Reijnders (both bench).
Bernardo Silva offside, Black Cats with power
ManCity had more of the game at the start and took an early lead: However, Bernardo Silva’s goal after Haaland’s header from a corner was disallowed because the Portuguese player was narrowly offside when the ball was played (6th minute). But as the game progressed, Sunderland got into the game better. After a combination between two former Leipzig players, Brobbey had the Black Cats’ first good chance in the 19th minute. And as the first half progressed, Sunderland were even the more dangerous team. After a mistake by Foden in his own penalty area, Ruben Diaz just managed to prevent worse for the Skyblues against Mayenda. Shortly afterwards, Haaland’s shot at the other end was not accurate enough (37′). However, the last chance before half-time was reserved for the home side: Hume headed Xhaka’s perfect cross just over the crossbar (45+4).
Substitute Gvardiol hits the woodwork
After the break, Guardiola’s team once again dominated the early stages. Savinho shot over the goal from a full run under pressure (47′). Shortly afterwards, the Brazilian failed to beat Roefs from five yards out – and then had to leave the field shortly afterwards for returnee Doku because he had injured himself in the action (51′). At half-time, the injured Nico had already remained in the dressing room, having been replaced by Rodri, who was also returning from injury (46′).
Even though Mayenda failed to beat Donnarumma with a good chance shortly afterwards (54′), the introduction of Doku provided some stimulation for the Skyblues, who gradually developed more and more pressure. Joker Gvardiol failed to beat Roefs with a header from a striker’s position (65′). Shortly afterwards, Mukiele somehow managed to block a powerful shot from Doku from close range with his head (74′). Gvardiol once again artistically guided the ball onto the outside post (74′). Once again, it was the former Leipzig player who missed the last good chance of the game in the 89th minute.
Promoted Sunderland, who remain unbeaten at home in the league, will be guests at Tottenham on Sunday (4 p.m.). Shortly afterwards, ManCity (6:30 p.m.) will face Chelsea FC at home, who parted ways with head coach Enzo Maresca on January 1, 2026.
