Sunderland Recreate Newcastle Photo After Epic Derby Win

Sunderland Recreate Newcastle Team Photo After Derby Delight

Sunderland delivered a famous Tyne-Wear derby victory over Newcastle in the Premier League — and celebrated in the most symbolic way possible: by recreating their rival’s iconic team photo from a painful past encounter.

The 1-0 win at a buzzing Stadium of Light came thanks to a Nick Woltemade own goal, securing Sunderland’s first Premier League derby win over Newcastle since 2016 and extending their unbeaten run against the Magpies to 10 league matches.

But the moment that went viral? A snapshot.

At full-time, Sunderland’s entire squad gathered for a photo — a deliberate and cheeky echo of Newcastle’s infamous on-pitch celebration after their 3-0 FA Cup win in 2024, taken in the same stadium.

Le Bris: “Unpredictable, Creative, Adaptive”

The Sunderland scoreboard at Stadium of Light did not display Newcastle’s name

Manager Regis Le Bris, when asked who came up with the idea for the photo, gave a knowing smile:

“Always unpredictable, creative, adaptive.”

His team is certainly reflecting that philosophy. Sunderland, promoted via the play-offs last season, now sit seventh in the Premier League with 26 points from 16 matches — their best top-flight start since 2000–01.

Ballard’s Redemption: “We Felt We Let Them Down”

Defender Dan Ballard, the only Sunderland player who also featured in the 2024 FA Cup defeat, was especially emotional after the final whistle.

In that game, he scored an own goal that compounded the Black Cats’ humiliation. This time, his voice carried pride.

“You cannot describe [the feeling]. It was so painful for the players and fans… We’re delighted. This win meant everything.”

He continued:

“This team came in with more quality, real leaders… We fought really hard and I thought we deserved the win.”

Xhaka: “Derbies You Have to Win — It Doesn’t Matter How”

Captain Granit Xhaka was full of fire in his post-match comments:

“Derbies, you have to win, it doesn’t matter how. This team deserves more respect — where we are in the league is amazing.”

With Xhaka’s leadership and Le Bris’ tactical control, Sunderland remain unbeaten at home this season in league play.

They now prepare to face Brighton in what will be another major test of their consistency and top-half ambitions.

Le Bris: “We Were Mature and Deserved It”

The Sunderland boss praised his squad’s mentality, maturity, and connection with the fans:

“It was a derby, and we were expected [to win] by our fans. This win is well deserved.”

“It’s good for the region, the club, the fans. We knew it was a special game — now we have to reset quickly.”

Sunderland vs Newcastle: Recent League Head-to-Head

Unbeaten in 10 league games vs Newcastle

7 wins, 3 draws

Last Newcastle win: August 2011

What’s Next?

• Sunderland: Away to Brighton (Premier League, next weekend)

• Newcastle: Host Leeds United in a must-win to stop the slide