Eldense vs Sunderland Predictions

Eldense vs Sunderland predictions for this pre season clash. Sunderland face Eldense in a pre-season friendly on Sunday afternoon, continuing preparations for the 2024-25 campaign. Read on for our free match preview and betting tips.

Club Friendlies | Jul 21, 2024 at 7pm UK at Pinatar Arena Football Center

Eldense vs Sunderland Predictions

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Can Sunderland’s New Approach Secure a Win Against Eldense?

Sunderland continue their preparations for the 2024-25 season with a friendly against Spanish second-tier side Eldense on Sunday. This match will be a significant test for both teams as they gear up for their respective league campaigns.

Team Analysis

Sunderland

Sunderland have had a mixed pre-season so far. They started with a resounding 5-0 victory over South Shields but then fell to a 2-1 defeat against Gateshead. These matches were part of a double-header last Saturday. The Black Cats also faced Nottingham Forest on Friday, which will have provided them with another opportunity to fine-tune their tactics and fitness ahead of this weekend’s clash against Eldense.

Under new manager Régis Le Bris, Sunderland are looking to build a more competitive side after finishing 16th in the Championship last season. Le Bris, who took charge last month, aims to instill a more disciplined and dynamic style of play. The team has added Alan Browne and Simon Moore to their ranks on free transfers, although they have lost five players at the end of their contracts.

For this match, Sunderland’s lineup might feature Moore in goal, with a defence comprising Hume, O’Nien, Hjelde, and Cirkin. The midfield could see Ekwah, Rigg, and Browne, while the attack might include Aouchiche, Mayenda, and Clarke. This blend of youth and experience will be crucial for Sunderland as they aim to find their rhythm ahead of the new season.

Eldense

Eldense, meanwhile, are just beginning their pre-season preparations. They have not played since their 1-0 defeat to Sporting Gijon at the start of June, which concluded their 2023-24 Segunda Division campaign. This match against Sunderland marks the start of a busy pre-season schedule for the Spanish side, which includes fixtures against Real Oviedo and FC Cartagena later in the month.

Managed by Dani Ponz, who is in his second spell at the club, Eldense have undergone significant changes this summer. They have brought in several new players, including Victor Camarasa, Dani Martin, Victor Garcia, Fran Gamez, Simo Bouzaidi, and Nacho Quintana. Florin Andone is likely to lead the line, supported by experienced midfielder David Timor.

Eldense’s expected starting XI might include Martin in goal, with a backline of Garcia, Gamez, Pina, and A. Martinez. The midfield could feature Camarasa, Quintana, and Timor, while the forward line might see Juanto, Andone, and Mateu. This setup aims to balance defensive solidity with attacking potential as they look to integrate their new signings effectively.

Expected Goals Analysis

Sunderland have shown glimpses of attacking prowess in pre-season, particularly in their 5-0 win over South Shields. They average 1.1 goals per game based on last season’s statistics, with a fairly balanced spread of goals from various positions. However, their defensive record, conceding 54 goals in 46 matches, highlights an area of concern that needs addressing.

Eldense, on the other hand, had a more modest goal-scoring record last season, averaging 1.1 goals per game, and conceded 56 goals. Their defensive issues are similar to Sunderland’s, and this match could expose these weaknesses given Sunderland’s offensive capabilities.

Key Duels and Field Areas

The midfield battle will be crucial in determining the outcome of this match. Sunderland’s Dan Neil and Pierre Ekwah will need to control the tempo and disrupt Eldense’s midfield trio of Camarasa, Quintana, and Timor. The ability of these players to win possession and distribute effectively could be decisive.

In attack, Sunderland’s Jack Clarke will be a key player, using his pace and creativity to challenge Eldense’s defence. Clarke’s duel with Eldense’s right-back Garcia could be a focal point of the match. Similarly, Florin Andone’s physical presence and goal-scoring ability will test Sunderland’s backline, particularly the young Hjelde.

Gameplay Predictions

Based on the playing styles of both teams, we can expect Sunderland to adopt a more aggressive and high-pressing approach under Le Bris. They will likely look to dominate possession and create chances through quick transitions and wide play. Eldense, meanwhile, might adopt a more cautious approach, focusing on defensive organisation and counter-attacks.

Improvement Suggestions

Sunderland

Sunderland need to improve their defensive solidity, particularly in transition phases where they have been vulnerable. Enhancing their organisation and communication at the back will be crucial. Offensively, they should continue to exploit wide areas and improve their efficiency in front of goal.

Eldense

Eldense should focus on integrating their new signings effectively and improving their defensive structure. They need to minimise errors that lead to scoring opportunities for the opposition. Offensively, creating more clear-cut chances and improving their finishing will be key to a successful season.

Managerial Strengths and Weaknesses

Régis Le Bris

Le Bris brings a fresh perspective to Sunderland, aiming to implement a more dynamic and disciplined style of play. His ability to motivate and develop young players is a strength. However, his lack of experience in managing at this level could be a potential weakness, especially in high-pressure situations.

Dani Ponz

Ponz, in his second spell at Eldense, has the advantage of knowing the club well. His experience in the Spanish leagues provides valuable insight. However, his tactical flexibility and ability to manage a squad undergoing significant changes will be tested.

Controversial Critique of Sunderland

Despite the promising signs under Le Bris, Sunderland’s strategy appears flawed. The emphasis on high pressing and attacking play often leaves them exposed defensively. Their inability to maintain a solid defensive structure has been evident in pre-season and could prove costly in competitive matches. Le Bris’s lack of experience at this level is also a concern, as he has yet to demonstrate the tactical acumen required to adapt to different challenges.

Predictions

Best Bet: Sunderland to Win

Given Sunderland’s advanced stage of preparation and their mix of experienced and young players, they are well-placed to secure a victory against Eldense. Their attacking potential, coupled with Eldense’s lack of match fitness, makes Sunderland the strong favourites.

Correct Score Prediction: Sunderland 3-1 Eldense

A 3-1 victory for Sunderland reflects their likely dominance and goal-scoring ability while acknowledging their defensive vulnerabilities. Eldense’s potential to exploit these weaknesses suggests they will get on the scoresheet.

Goalscorer Prediction: Jack Clarke

Jack Clarke’s form in pre-season and his role as a key attacking player make him a strong candidate to score. His pace and ability to cut inside from the wing will pose significant problems for Eldense’s defence.

Corner Prediction: Sunderland to Get More Corners

Sunderland’s attacking style and tendency to use wide areas should result in them winning more corners. Given Eldense’s defensive approach, Sunderland will likely force more corner situations.

Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target (Sunderland Over 6.5)

Sunderland’s aggressive approach and Eldense’s defensive frailties suggest that the Black Cats will have numerous attempts on goal. Backing them to have over 6.5 shots on target is a logical bet given their attacking depth and style of play.

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