On January 11, 2025, Sunderland AFC faced off against Stoke City in the FA Cup third round at the Stadium of Light. The match was a hard-fought encounter, filled with tension, determination, and moments of brilliance from both teams.
After an intense battle that remained goalless through regular time, Stoke City emerged victorious with a 2-1 win after extra time, knocking Sunderland out of the prestigious tournament.
The defeat was a disappointment for Sunderland fans, who had high hopes for their team’s FA Cup journey. However, the match showcased the competitive spirit of both sides, with Sunderland demonstrating resilience and Stoke City showing composure in the decisive moments.
Match Lineups
Sunderland AFC Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Alex Moore
Defenders: Trai Hume, Luke O’Nien, Leo Hjelde, Aji Alese
Midfielders: Caden Jones, Dan Neil, Eliezer Mayenda, Chris Rigg, Adil Aouchiche
Forward: Adam Connolly
Substitutes:
Nna Noukeu
Nazariy Rusyn
Jobe Bellingham
Wilson Isidor
Salis Abdul Samed
Chris Mepham
Milosz Aleksic
Zak Johnson
Tomiwa Ogunsuyi
Stoke City Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Viktor Johansson
Defenders: Junior Tchamadeu, Ashley Phillips, Ben Wilmot, Enda Stevens
Midfielders: Tatsuki Seko, Wouter Burger, Andrew Moran, Lewis Baker, Lewis Koumas
Forward: Tom Cannon
Substitutes:
Jack Bonham
Michael Rose
Solomon Lawal
Lynden Gooch
Emre Tezgel
Jun-Ho Bae
Andre Vidigal
Niall Ennis
Key Moments of the Match
The game started with both teams displaying a strong desire to dominate possession and control the tempo. Sunderland, playing at home, aimed to use their youthful energy and attacking intent to break down Stoke City’s defensive organization. Meanwhile, Stoke City, with their well-structured lineup, sought to balance defensive stability with offensive fluidity.
The first half saw both teams create goal-scoring opportunities but fail to convert them into an opening goal. Sunderland’s attacking play was lively, with Adil Aouchiche and Dan Neil trying to unlock Stoke City’s defense. On the other hand, Stoke City’s Tom Cannon and Andrew Moran tested Sunderland’s backline but were unable to find a breakthrough.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams increasing their attacking intent as time went on. Sunderland’s goalkeeper Alex Moore made crucial saves, keeping his side in the contest. Stoke City also had moments of pressure, with Viktor Johansson making important stops to deny Sunderland.
Despite the attacking efforts from both sides, the match ended 0-0 after 90 minutes, leading to extra time.
In extra time, Stoke City capitalized on their chances and took control of the game. They struck first, breaking the deadlock and seizing momentum. Not long after, they added a second goal, putting Sunderland on the back foot.
Sunderland responded by pulling a goal back, reigniting hope for a comeback. However, they were unable to find an equalizer in the remaining minutes. Despite their best efforts, Sunderland fell short, and Stoke City secured a 2-1 victory, booking their place in the next round of the FA Cup.
Tactical Analysis
Sunderland’s tactical setup appeared to be a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to provide defensive security while maintaining a creative presence in attack. Dan Neil and Caden Jones played deep in midfield, attempting to control the pace and distribution. Adil Aouchiche, positioned as an advanced midfielder, played a crucial role in linking up with striker Adam Connolly.
Stoke City also lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Wouter Burger and Tatsuki Seko anchoring the midfield and providing a shield for the defensive line. Andrew Moran played as the central playmaker, supporting lone striker Tom Cannon in attack. This structure allowed Stoke City to remain compact defensively while maintaining attacking flexibility.
The tactical battle between the two sides was evenly matched, with Sunderland looking to press high and create opportunities, while Stoke City remained disciplined and patient, waiting for the right moments to strike.
Player Performances
Sunderland AFC:
Alex Moore (Goalkeeper): Delivered a strong performance, making crucial saves to keep Sunderland in the game during regular time.
Dan Neil (Midfielder): Showcased his passing ability, trying to control the tempo and distribute the ball effectively.
Adil Aouchiche (Midfielder): Played in an advanced role, attempting to create opportunities for Sunderland’s attack.
Stoke City:
Viktor Johansson (Goalkeeper): Reliable in goal, making key saves to deny Sunderland’s attacking threats.
Tom Cannon (Forward): Active in attack, constantly looking to exploit Sunderland’s defensive gaps.
Andrew Moran (Midfielder): Provided creativity in midfield, helping Stoke City transition from defense to attack efficiently.
Historical Context
Sunderland and Stoke City have a long-standing rivalry, having faced each other numerous times across various competitions. Matches between these two teams have often been competitive, with close scorelines and tightly contested encounters.
For Sunderland, the FA Cup has historically been a tournament where they have sought to make deep runs, with past successes still cherished by fans. Stoke City, too, have had notable FA Cup moments, including reaching the final in 2011.
This third-round encounter was another chapter in their shared footballing history, adding to the competitive nature of their meetings.
Fan Reactions
The match garnered strong reactions from both sets of supporters. Sunderland fans, while disappointed with the result, acknowledged the team’s fighting spirit and the effort put in by their young squad. Many were encouraged by the performances of players like Dan Neil and Adil Aouchiche, who showed glimpses of their quality.
Stoke City fans, on the other hand, celebrated their progression to the next round. They praised the team’s ability to stay composed and capitalize on their chances in extra time. The victory was seen as a testament to their resilience and determination.
Social media buzzed with discussions about key moments, player performances, and the excitement of the FA Cup’s unpredictability.
Final Thought
The FA Cup third-round encounter between Sunderland AFC and Stoke City was a thrilling and hard-fought contest. Sunderland displayed grit and determination, but it was Stoke City who emerged victorious after extra time, securing a 2-1 win and advancing in the competition.
While the result was a setback for Sunderland, they can take positives from their performance and shift their focus to their league campaign. Stoke City, meanwhile, will look to build on this victory as they progress further in the tournament.
For fans and neutrals alike, the match was a reminder of the drama and excitement that the FA Cup consistently delivers. Highlights and key moments from the game are available on various sports broadcasting platforms for those looking to relive the action.
FAQs
Q: When was the most recent match between Sunderland A.F.C. and Stoke City, and what were the starting lineups?
A: The most recent encounter between Sunderland A.F.C. and Stoke City took place on January 11, 2025, in the FA Cup. The match concluded with Stoke City securing a 2-1 victory over Sunderland. The starting lineup for Sunderland included: Moore in goal; Hume, O’Nien, Hjelde, and Alese forming the defense; Jones and Neil as central midfielders; Mayenda, Rigg, and Aouchiche supporting the attack; with Connolly leading the forward line. Stoke City’s starting lineup featured: Johansson as the goalkeeper; Tchamadeu, Phillips, Wilmot, and Stevens in defense; Seko and Burger anchoring the midfield; Moran, Baker, and Koumas as attacking midfielders; and Cannon as the striker.
Q: What were the starting lineups in the December 7, 2024, match between Sunderland and Stoke City?
A: On December 7, 2024, Sunderland faced Stoke City in a Championship fixture. Sunderland’s starting lineup comprised: Anthony Patterson as goalkeeper; Trai Hume, Daniel Ballard, Luke O’Nien, and Ajibola-Joshua Alese in defense; Dan Neil and Jobe Bellingham in central midfield; Patrick Roberts, Chris Rigg, and Tom Watson as attacking midfielders; with Wilson Isidor as the forward. Stoke City’s lineup included: Viktor Johansson in goal; Junior Tchamadeu, Ashley Phillips, Michael Rose, and Eric Bocat in defense; Tatsuki Seko and Andrew Moran in midfield; Lewis Koumas, Million Manhoef, and Jun-Ho Bae supporting striker Tom Cannon.
Q: How have the lineups evolved in recent Sunderland vs. Stoke City matches?
A: In their December 7, 2024, encounter, Sunderland fielded a lineup featuring Anthony Patterson as goalkeeper, with a defense consisting of Trai Hume, Daniel Ballard, Luke O’Nien, and Ajibola-Joshua Alese. The midfield included Dan Neil and Jobe Bellingham, while the attack comprised Patrick Roberts, Chris Rigg, Tom Watson, and Wilson Isidor. By the January 11, 2025, FA Cup match, Sunderland’s lineup saw changes, with Moore as goalkeeper, and a defense of Hume, O’Nien, Hjelde, and Alese. The midfield featured Jones and Neil, with Mayenda, Rigg, and Aouchiche supporting forward Connolly. These adjustments reflect the teams’ strategies and player availability at different times.
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