Oxford United vs Sunderland: Engaging Match Preview
Oxford United prepares for an exciting clash against Sunderland in the Emirates FA Cup on Sunday, February 15, at 2:00 PM. The match will take place at Kassam Stadium, with the U’s hoping to reach the fifth round for the first time since 2017.
Match Preview: Oxford United vs. Sunderland
Key Facts About the Teams
- Oxford United: Recent form: 1 win, 1 draw, 3 losses in their last five matches.
- Sunderland: Recent form: 2 wins, 0 draws, 3 losses in their last five matches.
Oxford United comes into the game seeking to boost their confidence. A victory could rejuvenate their season and create a positive atmosphere around the club. Conversely, Sunderland aims to end a recent slide in form after a promising start to the season.
Tribute to Joey Beauchamp
Oxford United will honor the late Joey Beauchamp during the match. This tribute marks four years since his passing. The winger’s legacy remains significant, with 428 appearances and 80 goals for the club, making him one of their all-time greats.
How They Reached This Stage
Both teams secured their spots in the fourth round in dramatic fashion. Oxford triumphed over MK Dons, recovering from a goal down to win in a penalty shootout. Sunderland, on the other hand, edged past Everton after a tightly contested match that also went to penalties, with the Black Cats successfully converting all their attempts.
Historical Context and Rivalry
This matchup showcases a rich history between the two clubs, featuring 40 encounters. Oxford United has avoided defeat in 19 of those meetings. The last FA Cup clash occurred in 1992, where Sunderland claimed a 3-2 victory. Their most recent league meeting ended with a 2-0 win for Oxford in April 2025.
Potential Match Highlights
- Oxford United’s tactical approach might allow them to play fearlessly at home.
- Sunderland may rotate their squad, potentially impacting their performance.
- New signing Jin Woo Jeon could make a significant debut after an impressive introduction in recent matches.
Team News and Player Insights
Oxford United welcomes back Will Lankshear after suspension. Jack Currie and Jamie Donley may return from injury. However, Brian De Keersmaecker and others remain sidelined.
Sunderland faces an injury dilemma, with captain Granit Xhaka unlikely to feature. Additionally, Bertrand Traore and Jocelin Ta Bi are also expected to miss the match.
Key Players to Watch
- Oxford United: Will Lankshear – The leading scorer for the U’s with 7 goals.
- Sunderland: Brian Brobbey – Sunderland’s top scorer, known for his strength and goal-scoring abilities.
Match Information
This thrilling encounter is set for Sunday, February 15, at Kassam Stadium, kicking off at 2:00 PM. Both teams will vie for a coveted place in the next round of the FA Cup, promising an engaging spectacle for supporters.
