Sunderland AFC’s 2025-26 campaign marks a thrilling return to the Premier League, featuring a high-stakes schedule against England’s elite clubs. The Black Cats’ upcoming matches for the remainder of the season include crucial home fixtures at the Stadium of Light against Liverpool (February 12) and Manchester United (May 9), as well as the highly anticipated Tyne-Wear Derby away at Newcastle United on March 22, 2026. This season’s fixture list is characterized by a challenging run-in, concluding with a massive home clash against Chelsea on May 24, 2026.
In this guide, you will find a comprehensive breakdown of every remaining fixture, including confirmed kick-off times, broadcast details, and ticket information. Whether you are planning a trip to the Wearside or following from afar, this authoritative resource covers everything from domestic cup ties in the FA Cup to practical match-day advice for visiting the Stadium of Light.
Remaining Premier League Home Fixtures
Sunderland’s home form is vital for their top-flight survival and mid-table ambitions. The Stadium of Light remains one of the most atmospheric venues in the league, hosting several “Big Six” opponents in the final months of the season.
Key home dates to circle in your calendar include Burnley (February 2), Liverpool (February 11), and Fulham (February 22). These matches often see high demand, with ticket prices starting from £54 for standard seats, though high-profile games like the Liverpool fixture can see resale prices climb significantly higher.
The atmosphere at home reaches its peak during evening kick-offs. The match against Nottingham Forest on April 25 and the final day clash with Chelsea are expected to be sell-outs, with supporters urged to secure tickets through official club channels or verified partners well in advance.
Upcoming Away Match Schedule
Traveling supporters have several iconic stadiums to visit during the 2026 leg of the season. Sunderland faces a daunting trip to the Emirates Stadium to play Arsenal on February 7, followed by a journey to the South Coast to face Bournemouth on February 28.
Perhaps the most significant date for any Sunderland fan is March 22, 2026, when the team travels to St. James’ Park for the Tyne-Wear Derby. Away allocations for this fixture are strictly limited and typically distributed via a loyalty point system, making it the most difficult ticket to acquire in the calendar.
Other notable away trips include Leeds United at Elland Road (March 4) and Aston Villa at Villa Park (April 18). Fans should note that Premier League fixtures are subject to change due to television broadcasting rights, often shifting from Saturday 3:00 PM to Sunday or Monday night slots.
FA Cup and Domestic Competitions
Sunderland’s 2025-26 domestic cup journey continues to provide a secondary route for silverware and European qualification. Following their third-round success, the Black Cats are scheduled to face Oxford United in the FA Cup fourth round on February 15, 2026.
FA Cup fixtures can lead to the postponement of regularly scheduled Premier League games. For instance, progress into the later rounds of the cup could result in the Brighton (March 14) or Tottenham (April 11) fixtures being moved to mid-week slots later in the spring.
The club has historically taken domestic cups seriously, often fielding strong lineups to satisfy a fanbase hungry for a trip to Wembley. Ticket prices for cup games are generally lower than league matches, with concessions for under-16s often starting as low as £10-£15.
The Tyne-Wear Derby Details
The rivalry between Sunderland and Newcastle United remains one of the most intense in world football. After winning the home leg 1-0 in December 2025, Sunderland looks to complete a historic league double over their neighbors on March 22, 2026.
The away fixture at St. James’ Park is classified as a “Category A+” game, meaning heightened security and specific travel arrangements for visiting fans are mandatory. Supporters are often required to use “bubble” transport—official club coaches that travel directly from the Stadium of Light to the away end.
This fixture is rarely a high-scoring affair but is always high in drama. For neutral fans looking to experience the intensity, the local pubs in Sunderland city center, such as The Keel Tavern or Sheepfolds Stables, provide a vibrant alternative atmosphere on derby day.
Practical Information and Planning
Ticket Prices and Booking
- Adult Tickets: Prices range from £54 (vs Burnley) to over £170 (vs Liverpool/Man Utd) on secondary markets.
- Junior/Concessions: Available from £125 for a season pass or roughly £20-£35 per individual match.
- Hospitality: Executive boxes start at £1,600, while lounge access packages begin around £120 per person.
Getting to the Stadium of Light
- By Metro: The St. Peter’s and Stadium of Light stations are the closest, with frequent service from Newcastle and South Shields.
- By Car: Parking at the stadium is limited to permit holders; however, “Park and Ride” services operate from the Sunderland Enterprise Park.
- On Foot: The stadium is a scenic 15-minute walk from the city center via the Wearmouth Bridge.
What to Expect on Match Day
The stadium gates typically open 90 minutes before kick-off. Visitors can enjoy the “Fan Zone” located outside the South Stand, featuring live music, food stalls, and former player appearances. Note that the Stadium of Light is a cashless venue, so bring a card or mobile payment for food and merchandise.
2026 Key Dates Summary
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Competition |
| Feb 2, 2026 | Burnley | Home | Premier League |
| Feb 7, 2026 | Arsenal | Away | Premier League |
| Feb 11, 2026 | Liverpool | Home | Premier League |
| Feb 15, 2026 | Oxford Utd | Away | FA Cup |
| Mar 22, 2026 | Newcastle | Away | Premier League |
| May 24, 2026 | Chelsea | Home | Premier League |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the next Sunderland home game?
Sunderland’s next home match is against Burnley on February 2, 2026, with a kick-off time of 8:00 PM (GMT). This is a crucial Monday night fixture in the Premier League.
Where can I buy Sunderland vs Liverpool tickets?
Tickets for the Liverpool match on February 11 are in high demand. They can be purchased through the official SAFC online ticket office or trusted secondary platforms like SeatPick and StubHub, where prices currently start at approximately £175.
What time is the Tyne-Wear Derby in 2026?
The away derby against Newcastle United is scheduled for Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 12:00 PM. Note that derby times are frequently adjusted for police and television requirements.
How much are Sunderland season tickets for the Premier League?
For the 2025-26 season, adult season tickets started at £590, while under-14 tickets were available for as low as £125. Prices for the 2026-27 season are typically announced in March.
Is the Sunderland match on TV today?
Sunderland fixtures are frequently broadcast on Sky Sports and TNT Sports in the UK. Mid-week games, such as the Liverpool clash, are often featured on Amazon Prime Video.
How do I get to the Stadium of Light from Newcastle?
The most efficient way is taking the Tyne & Wear Metro (Green Line) towards South Hylton. Exit at St. Peter’s for the most direct walk to the stands.
Can I buy tickets at the stadium on match day?
Due to the club’s Premier League status, most games sell out in advance. It is highly recommended to book online, as the ticket office rarely has “on the gate” availability for league matches.
What is the capacity of the Stadium of Light?
The Stadium of Light has a capacity of 49,000, making it one of the largest club stadiums in England. This creates a formidable atmosphere, especially for the “North East” derbies.
Are there any Sunderland matches postponed?
Currently, the Brighton match in March and the Tottenham match in April are at risk of being moved if Sunderland or their opponents progress to the FA Cup Quarter-Finals.
Where is the away end at the Stadium of Light?
Away supporters are housed in the North Stand Upper, which offers a great view of the pitch but requires climbing several flights of stairs (lifts are available for those with accessibility needs).
What are the best pubs for Sunderland fans?
Popular pre-match spots include The Colliery Tavern, directly opposite the stadium, and the newly developed Sheepfolds Stables, which offers a variety of high-end food and drink options.
Final Thoughts
The 2025-26 season has been a landmark year for Sunderland AFC, characterized by a formidable return to the Premier League and a renewed sense of purpose under the leadership of Régis Le Bris. As the club enters the final months of the campaign, the focus remains on securing a top-half finish and potentially challenging for European qualification—a feat that seemed a distant dream just two years ago. With the Stadium of Light boasting some of the highest average attendances in the league (averaging over 46,200), the home support will be a decisive factor in the high-stakes matches against Manchester United and Chelsea this May.
As the season concludes on May 24, 2026, the fixtures ahead represent more than just games; they are a celebration of the club’s revival and its deep-rooted connection to the Wearside community. Whether the Black Cats finish in the top ten or secure a surprise European spot, the 2025-26 schedule has already etched itself into history as the year the “reawakened” Sunderland proved they belong at the pinnacle of English football.
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