Sunderland AFC Under-21s host Middlesbrough FC at the Stadium of Light on Monday with Lead Coach, Graeme Murty, describing the fixture as "a great opportunity" for his players.
The Premier League 2 clash will see both sides start the game sitting in the top 10 with an opportunity to cement a place in the play-offs with only three fixtures remaining.
Those sides who finish within the top 16 will qualify with those in the top 12 also entering next seasons international cup.
"We have put ourselves in a good position", Murty explained.
"With the changes in the PL2, we have had to face different challenges, but the Lads have continued to show us a level of commitment that is highlighted in our results."
The Black Cats head into the game on the back of three points against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Goals from Tommy Watson and Marshall Burke secured a 2-1 win on the road.
"Monday was a difficult full-blooded game. The players showed some good quality and resolve to dig out three points.
"We have a young side compared to the rest, but I am really pleased with their spirit and how they have composed themselves in difficult fixtures."
Watson opened the scoring after just six minutes making it two goals in two games for the 18-year-old.
"He is doing a lot of the right things at the moment; fans will be excited by him, and we will help him to continue on the right path and maintain that level of consistency.
"I know he will relish getting that opportunity to feature at the SoL.”
With the Black Cats currently in ninth, Boro sit just one place behind with both sides currently on 28 points. Victory could see either team leapfrog into seventh.
"Mark Tinkler's side have had a really good season and most recently had positive results against Newcastle and Manchester United so we know they will be hard to breakdown.
"The players have a responsibility to meet our demands and carry on that momentum from Monday night.
"Playing at the stadium comes with different pressures but it is exciting for some of our Lads who will be experiencing that for the very first time. We hope to see as many people there as possible and end the night with a further three points on the board."
Tickets can be purchased online here with kick-off at 7pm.