Sunderland's high press and Brentford's short buildup should make the opening exchanges important. Sunderland can force a hurried first pass, while Brentford have several ways to play through that pressure. The later contest should turn on which team converts its wide supply into a clean central shot.
Sunderland's Tutierov, Fofana and Talbi can attack a mistake quickly, but their Leeds pressure yielded few close chances. Brentford can find Damsgaard behind the first press and bring fresh runners into the box, as the Hull response showed. Janelt has served the suspension that kept him out at Hull and Damsgaard is available; Brobbey played against Leeds, though Sunderland's cup rotation may shift the forward roles.
Sunderland should have an early pressing spell. Brentford's passing outlets and deeper late finishing options give them a stronger answer after that first phase. That's why I'm siding with Brentford to win.
