Sunderland moved up to second in the Premier League table on Saturday afternoon following a superb two-one victory at Chelsea. It was a well-deserved victory for the Black Cats against a side that had beaten Ajax 5-1 in midweek. Head coach Regis Le Bris changed his formation for this game, and apart from the goal they conceded, the game plan was flawless.
Sunderland’s Game Plan Against Chelsea Almost Flawless as They Earn Three Points
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### Five at the Back?
When the teams were announced, those who believed that Sunderland would be playing five at the back in the hope of keeping Chelsea at bay could be forgiven for thinking that, and they were almost correct.
Out of possession, that’s exactly what they did, and apart from the early setback, they adapted to the change in formation well. However, in possession, Regis Le Bris gave fullback Trai Hume the licence to move into central midfield to give Sunderland the numerical advantage going forward.
### Bringing Reinildo Back After Suspension Proved to be Correct
Fans were undecided as to whether left-back Reinildo would go straight back into the starting eleven following his suspension; however, it proved to be the correct choice, especially in the formation that was chosen, which allowed him to play more as a wing-back.
Chelsea winger Pedro Neto was an obvious threat to Sunderland, but the Mozambique international kept the Portuguese star at bay for much of the time they were on the field together.
### Substitutions Timed to Perfection
Regis Le Bris has a knack of being able to read the game perfectly and use his substitutions to maximum effect. Today was no different.
With much of the second half gone and the scores level, many visiting teams would have brought on an extra defensive-minded player in the hope of leaving with what would be seen as a good away point at Stamford Bridge. However, Le Bris did not do this; he sensed that the game could be won.
First came winger Chemsdine Talbi, then it was midfielder Chris Rigg and striker Brian Brobbey. In stoppage time, the changes paid off spectacularly. Brobbey held up the ball until his teammates got forward. He then cut the ball back for the advancing Talbi, who calmly put the ball into the far corner of the net to secure the three points.
### Second in the Table
The victory took Sunderland to second in the Premier League with 17 points from their first nine games. It is still early in the season, but those who believed that the Black Cats would struggle and be relegated this season could be having a rethink.
Read More: [Five Memorable Games For Sunderland at Chelsea](https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2025/10/24/five-memorable-sunderland-games-against-chelsea/)
_Featured image courtesy of Credit IMAGO / Sportimage. London, England, 25th October 2025. Chemsdine Talbi of Sunderland scores their second goal in injury time during the Chelsea vs Sunderland Premier League match at Stamford Bridge, London. Picture credit should read: Paul Terry Sportimage_