Sunderland Face Wrexham: Key Predictions, Tactical Insights, and Expected Lineups Revealed

Wrexham will round off their preseason schedule with a friendly against Sunderland in Philadelphia this Sunday.

Phil Parkinson's men suffered their first loss of the summer, going down 1–0 to Liverpool in midweek, while Sunderland were beaten by the same margin against Leeds United.

With the new league campaign drawing near, both Parkinson and Régis Le Bris are expected to give key players significant minutes as final preparations are made. Wrexham face Middlesbrough in the opening round of the Carabao Cup next week, while Sunderland have three more warmup games remaining before kicking off their Premier League season against Ipswich Town.

Sunderland vs. Wrexham Score Prediction

Sunderland are chasing only their second win of the summer, having followed a victory over York City with back-to-back defeats to Liverpool and Leeds United on their U.S. tour. Wrexham, on the other hand, have already claimed scalps against Wisła Kraków, Manchester United and Leeds United in what has been a standout preseason.

The Black Cats enter Sunday's fixture as the favorites given their stronger squad on paper, but the Red Dragons may hold an advantage in terms of match sharpness having already played four friendlies. That could set the stage for another tight contest, with a single moment of brilliance likely deciding the outcome.

Prediction: Sunderland 1–1 Wrexham

Sunderland Predicted Lineup vs. Wrexham

High-profile names such as Granit Xhaka, Chemsdine Talbi and Omar Alderete have not made the trip following the World Cup, and new recruit Thomas Meunier is also absent.

While Le Bris won't have his complete Premier League squad available, he will look to hand more playing time to those working their way back to full fitness after summer breaks. Brian Brobbey and Robin Roefs are among those expected to feature.

Sunderland predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Roefs; Mukiele, Ballard, O'Nien, Reinildo; Sadiki, Diarra; Hume, Le Fee, Mundle; Brobbey.

Wrexham Predicted Lineup vs. Sunderland

Parkinson rang the changes with seven alterations for the Liverpool defeat, and more rotation is anticipated as he refreshes his squad for the final preseason fixture. Arthur Okonkwo was notably absent in New York, and his involvement against Sunderland remains uncertain.

Zak Vyner has featured in each of the last three games and may be rested, with Max Cleworth a strong contender to slot into the back three. Danny Imray could make his debut for Wrexham at right wingback, pushing Ryan Longman to the bench, while Liberato Cacace may earn his first start of the summer on the opposite side.

Lewis O'Brien and Matty James have cemented their place as Parkinson's go-to central midfield duo throughout preseason, while Nathan Broadhead and Bailey Cadamarteri could return in the attacking midfield positions. Kieffer Moore may lead the attack, with Sam Smith given a rest.

Wrexham predicted lineup (3-4-2-1): Ward; Cleworth, Hyam, Doyle; Imray, James, O'Brien, Cacace; Cadamarteri, Broadhead; Moore.

What Time Does Sunderland vs. Wrexham Kick Off?

How to Watch Sunderland vs. Wrexham

Wrexham's preseason friendly against Sunderland will be accessible in the United Kingdom via the club's official streaming platform, where fans can buy a match pass. The game will also be broadcast on SAFC Live, Premier Sports 1, S4C and BBC iPlayer.

Viewers in the United States can tune in on ESPN, ESPN Select, fuboTV, and the ESPN app, while the match will also be available in Australia through Stan Sport and in Mexico on Claro Sports. Canadian viewers will not have access to a live broadcast.