Sunderland were back in Premier League action as they kick off 2026 against Manchester City.
The hosts earned a creditable draw despite missing a number of key players, preserving their unbeaten home record. Here’s how we rated all the Black Cats involved...
Really alert when he needed to be, making a couple of smart stops from Haaland and then Gvardiol. Showed good reflexes and composure as ever. 8
1. GK - Robin Roefs
Really alert when he needed to be, making a couple of smart stops from Haaland and then Gvardiol. Showed good reflexes and composure as ever. 8 | Frank Reid
Enjoyed playing in what is much closer to his preferred right back role. Defended well and particularly late on when Doku threatened. Part of a big clean sheet. 7
2. RB - Lutsharel Geertruida
Enjoyed playing in what is much closer to his preferred right back role. Defended well and particularly late on when Doku threatened. Part of a big clean sheet. 7 | Chris Fryatt
Another big performance from one of the players of the season. Defended so well from start to finish, and used the ball very well in the first half. Made some big interventions late on. 9
3. CB - Nordi Mukiele
Another big performance from one of the players of the season. Defended so well from start to finish, and used the ball very well in the first half. Made some big interventions late on. 9 | Chris Fryatt
One brilliant late challenge on Haaland late on summed up another nearly flawless defensive performance. Never found wanting and so calm on the ball. 9
4. CB - Omar Alderete
One brilliant late challenge on Haaland late on summed up another nearly flawless defensive performance. Never found wanting and so calm on the ball. 9 | Sunderland's Omar Alderete. Photo by Chris Fryatt.