AliousManagerless QPR Deepen Sunderland’s Woes with Stadium of Light Shock
Sunderland’s dismal run continued as a 1-0 home defeat to managerless Queens Park Rangers ensured they entered the Championship play-offs without a win in six games. Nicolas Madsen’s fifth-minute strike proved decisive, extending the Black Cats’ losing streak to five and compounding concerns ahead of their semi-final clash against Coventry City.
Despite already locking in fourth place, Sunderland looked short on ideas and cutting edge. Madsen calmly slotted past Anthony Patterson after Harrison Ashby found space to deliver a low cross, setting the tone for a frustrating afternoon for the home side.
Though Sunderland dominated possession for much of the match, they created little of real danger. Their best first-half opportunity came through Eliezer Mayenda, whose flick from Enzo Le Fee’s cross failed to trouble the goalkeeper. Meanwhile, QPR could’ve doubled their lead before the break when Jonathan Varane found space, only to misfire across the face of goal.
The second half brought renewed urgency from the hosts, but still no end product. Patrick Roberts missed a golden opportunity with a misdirected header, and Jimmy Dunne went close to doubling QPR’s advantage at the other end. Substitute Dan Ballard’s late header was the only real test for Joe Walsh as the visitors held firm.
The result capped off a turbulent week for QPR, who parted ways with head coach Marti Cifuentes just days earlier. Interim managers Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm guided the team to a confident display that saw them finish comfortably in 15th, seven points clear of relegation.
Sunderland, meanwhile, must regroup quickly ahead of their crucial play-off fixture, with fans growing increasingly uneasy about the club’s form and momentum heading into the postseason.
Alious
