When Yeremy Pino slipped the ball wide in the 36th minute, the goalless draw between Crystal Palace and Sunderland at Selhurst Park turned into a punch‑drunk lesson for both managers. The match, played on Saturday, 13 September 2025, was the fourth fixture of the 2025‑26 Premier League season and left the Eagles with six points from four games while the Black Cats nabbed their first away point since promotion.
Early‑Season Context
Oliver Glasner, the Austrian manager who took over Palace in May 2023, entered the international break on a modest five‑point haul after a 2‑1 win at Anfield and a dominant Community Shield showdown against Liverpool. Across the Tyne, Régis Le Bris, the French‑born coach who guided Sunderland to the Championship crown with a record 98 points, had already turned his side into a home‑fortress, winning both of their opening fixtures.
Both clubs were juggling injury lists. Palace’s Senegalese winger Ismaïla Sarr missed the trip, opening the door for Pino’s first start. At the same time, central midfielder Adam Wharton sat out, prompting Jefferson Lerma’s return to the lineup. Sunderland, meanwhile, handed French striker Wilson Isidor his league debut, hoping his pace would trouble the Eagles’ back line.
Match Overview: Missed Chances and Tight Defending
The first half unfolded in a cautious rhythm. Palace dominated possession – 53% according to ESPN’s stats – but struggled to carve a clear path. Daichi Kamada’s defense‑splitting pass in the 36th minute set Pino streaking toward goal, yet his finish drifted wide of the left post. "Yeremy Pino squandered a golden chance to mark his first Premier League start with the winner," the match analyst observed.
Sunderland, despite having slightly less of the ball, compensated with disciplined defending. Their centre‑back duo, led by newly‑promoted captain Marc Guéhi, repelled every Palace thrust. Guéhi, who had just seen a £60 million move to Liverpool fall through after a failed medical on 30 August, captained the side with composure.
Statistically, the game was a mirror. Both teams registered zero shots on target, four corners each, and a combined twelve fouls. The Eagles threw in three attempts on goal, all saved or off‑target, while the Black Cats never managed a genuine strike.
Individual Performances
Beyond the missed chance, Pino’s movement was a bright spot; he completed five successful dribbles and tracked back to aid his full‑backs. Kamada, the Japanese midfielder, dictated the tempo, completing 78 passes with an 89% success rate. Jean‑Philippe Mateta’s presence was felt in the box, forcing a late defensive clearance, though he too failed to find the net.
For Sunderland, Wilson Isidor’s energy was noticeable. He made two runs into the final third, creating space for his teammates even though none materialised into a shot. Goalkeeper Lee Campbell kept a clean sheet with seven saves, the highest of any goalkeeper in the opening four matchweeks.
Manager Reactions
After the final whistle, Glasner praised his squad’s resilience but lamented the lack of cutting edge. "We created chances, but the finishing did not come. We must turn possession into goals," he told reporters backstage.
Le Bris was equally measured. "A point away from home is a good start for a newly promoted side. We will build on the defensive solidity and look to be more clinical," he added, gesturing toward the empty net as a reminder of work still needed.
Implications for the Title Race and Survival Battle
The draw keeps Palace level with the top‑four contenders at 6 points, but their win‑less streak could see them slip if rivals find form. Conversely, Sunderland’s point nudges them ahead of several established Premier League clubs, reinforcing their survival narrative.
Both teams now face a crucial week. Palace travels to face unspecified opponent on 20 September, while Sunderland hosts an unnamed side the same day. The outcomes will shape early‑season momentum and possibly dictate whether the Eagles become a European contender or a mid‑table mainstay, and whether the Black Cats can sustain their ascent.
Key Facts
- Final score: Crystal Palace 0‑0 Sunderland
- Venue: Selhurst Park, London
- Attendance: 26,439 (reported)
- Missed opportunity: Yeremy Pino, 36th minute
- Possession: Palace 53% – Sunderland 47%
- Shots on target: 0 each
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the draw affect Crystal Palace’s European ambitions?
With six points after four matches, Palace remain within reach of the Europa League spots, but the failure to score highlights a potential bottleneck. If they cannot convert possession into goals soon, rivals could overtake them in the standings.
What does Sunderland’s first away point mean for their survival hopes?
Securing a point on the road early in the campaign boosts confidence and adds to their six‑point tally, putting them ahead of several established clubs. Maintaining defensive solidity like today will be key to avoiding the relegation battle.
Why did Marc Guéhi remain as Palace captain after his Liverpool move fell through?
Guéhi’s transfer collapsed due to a failed medical on 30 August, leaving him at Selhurst Park. His leadership and defensive acumen earned him the armband, and he kept the role throughout the early season.
What tactical changes might Glasner make after the goalless draw?
Glasner is likely to encourage his wingers to cut inside more, creating space for midfield runners. He may also add a second striker to alleviate the pressure on Pino and increase goal‑scoring options.
When is the next match for both clubs?
Both teams are slated to play again on Saturday, 20 September 2025. Palace travel to an undisclosed opponent, while Sunderland host a yet‑to‑be‑named side at the Stadium of Light.
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