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Sunderland AFC Europa League campaign

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2026-09-16 22:17 UTC → 2026-09-17 08:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Sunderland AFC has returned to European competition for the first time in over 50 years following their promotion to the Premier League and a subsequent seventh-place finish last season. Following the UEFA Europa League draw, CEO Tom Burwell expressed optimism regarding a scheduled fixture against AC Milan at the San Siro, suggesting that up to 20,000 supporters might travel to Italy. Sunderland began their campaign at the Stadium of Light against AZ Alkmaar. Entering the opener, Sunderland had earned four points from four Premier League matches, though they faced squad availability issues with Habib Diarra and Romaine Mundle sidelined by injury. AZ Alkmaar entered the match undefeated in all competitions, including their opening six Eredivisie matches. Sunderland secured a 1-0 victory in their Europa League opener, marking their first European match in 53 years. Despite Sunderland’s dominance in the first half, AZ goalkeeper Jari De Busser kept the score level with several key saves, and Enzo Le Fée struck the post during the opening period. The decisive moment arrived in the second half when Wesley Patati conceded a penalty while attempting to stop a Sunderland counter-attack. Enzo Le Fée converted the penalty in the 66th minute to provide the winning margin. Although AZ Alkmaar pushed for an equalizer late in the game, including chances by Ro-Zangelo Daal, Kees Smit, and Mexx Meerdink, they were unable to find the net. ~~The English press noted~~ Following the ~~performance of~~ match, AZ ~~players, specifically Kees Smit, during~~ Alkmaar manager Leeroy Echteld expressed frustration regarding the ~~match's closing stages.~~ penalty, stating, “That is not something you should do,” while noting that his team was the better side in the second half. Sunderland’s next Europa League fixture is an away match against Torreense.

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