Sunderland hosts AZ Alkmaar in historic Europa League return

Sunderland AFC is set to host AZ Alkmaar at the Stadium of Light for a UEFA Europa League fixture, marking the club’s first appearance in European competition in over 50 years. The match follows Sunderland’s seventh-place finish in the Premier League last season, which secured their qualification.

Sunderland enters the match after a recent 2-0 loss to Arsenal, currently sitting 14th in the Premier League standings. Captain Granit Xhaka has expressed confidence in the squad's mental and physical readiness for the challenge. The team relies on players like Brian Brobbey and Xhaka to lead their campaign.

AZ Alkmaar arrives in England in strong form, remaining unbeaten in their opening six Eredivisie matches. Despite their domestic success, the Dutch side faces a historical challenge, as they have never won an official European match on English soil. Key players for AZ include Jordy Clasie and Ro-Zangelo Daal, with Kees Smit also expected to return from injury.