A summer of hefty spending has worked spectacularly so far for Sunderland, with two wins in their first four Premier League outings. They hosted struggling Aston Villa this afternoon, but the dismissa...
A summer of hefty spending has worked spectacularly so far for Sunderland, with two wins in their first four Premier League outings. They hosted struggling Aston Villa this afternoon, but the dismissal of Reinildon Mandava just over the half-hour mark forced Regis Le Bris to alter his strategy.
Villa, being the only side not to score a league goal, opened their account from Matty Cash’s long-range strike, but the incredible Black Cats equalised when in-form Wilson Isidor slotted home a few minutes later.
Below are the Sunderland players rated in their 1-1 draw against Aston Villa.
Robin Roefs: 5
Sunderland’s resolute defending protected him throughout the game. But the Dutchman should have done better to stop Cash’s strike, as he misjudged the flight completely.
Trai Hume: 7.5
A strong defensive display from the Northern Irishman, who was confined to defensive duties due to being a man down for the majority of the contest.
Nordi Mukiele: 8
A solid performance from the former PSG centre-back as he not only dominated the duels but also caused menace in the Villa defence with his long throws. His no-nonsense clearances, timely tackles and recoveries helped the Wearsiders maintain composure at the back.
Omar Alderete: 8
Another stellar outing from the Paraguayan, who came close to finding the net with a stunning header but was denied by the woodwork. Shifted on the wide following Mandava’s exit, thus allowing Daniel Ballard to slot in the heart of the backline.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Reinildo Mandava of Sunderland reacts after being shown a red card by the Referee during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Aston Villa at Stadium of Light on September 21, 2025 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Reinildo Mandava: 5
Had a strong start down the left, but a moment of recklessness resulted in his marching order. Should have avoided reacting to Matty Cash’s foul.
Granit Xhaka: 8.5
The skipper was relentless with his high work ethic, tactical fouls, challenges and directness. Set it up perfectly for Isidor, who made no mistake to slot home beyond Emiliano Martinez.
Noah Sadiki: 7
His ball progression was limited due to the circumstances, but he continued to marshal the backline with sheer expertise. Was taken off for Dan Neil moments before the final whistle.
Chemsdine Talbi: 7
Played from a deeper role to attune to a 4-4-1 formation. Worked hard down the wide to defend against Villa’s attacking threats as well as staging counter-attacks with his swiftness. Made way for Arthur Masuaku late in the game.
Chris Rigg: 6
The talented teenager was deployed from the start as an advanced playmaker. Showed glimpses of his quality before being taken off for Ballard as a tactical tweak following Reinildo’s red card.
Enzo Le Fee: 6.5
Covered a lot of ground as he showed his off-the-ball work rate despite not having enough touches in and around the attacking third. Was taken off for Lutsharel Geertruida with 10 minutes remaining of the regulation time.
Wilson Isidor: 8
Was a constant threat with his goal-bound attempts before netting his 3rd league goal in five appearances around the 75th-minute mark. Received massive cheers from the Mackem while making way for Eliezer Mayenda.
Sunderland Subs vs Aston Villa
Daniel Ballard: 7
Performed his defensive duties with composure and concentration since replacing Rigg late in the first half.
Eliezer Mayenda: NA
Category: General Sports
