Sunderland Face AZ Alkmaar in Europa League Return After 53 Years
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Sunderland, the Black Cats, are set to host Dutch Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday night (September 17, 2026, 03:00 HKT) in their Europa League opener, marking the club's return to European competition after more than half a century since 1973 . The English club secured their spot in the competition by finishing seventh in the Premier League last season, and under inspirational manager Le Bris, they have built a formidable home record that will be crucial against the experienced European side AZ . With both teams possessing distinct strengths and weaknesses, the match is expected to be closely contested, with the over/under line set at 3.5 goals favoring the under .
Key Points
- Sunderland qualified for Europa League by finishing 7th in Premier League, their first European action since 1973
- Manager Le Bris has built a strong home record, winning 1-0 against Fulham and Hull City this season
- New signing Malick Fofana from Lyon is expected to start, adding pace to Sunderland's attacking options
- AZ Alkmaar lead the Eredivisie with 5 wins and 1 draw, though they sold striker Troy Parrot to Real Betis
- AZ's away form has been weak, losing 1-3 to Crystal Palace and scoring only 4 goals in 3 away matches
Why It Matters
Sunderland's Europa League campaign represents a significant milestone for the club and English football, as three Premier League teams compete in the competition this season following Tottenham and Aston Villa's recent titles . The result could establish whether Sunderland can compete at the European level with their young squad and new signings, setting the tone for their campaign against established continental opponents .
Sunderland's Europa League campaign represents a significant milestone for the club and English football, as three Premier League teams compete in the competition this season following Tottenham and Aston Villa's recent titles . The result could establish whether Sunderland can compete at the European level with their young squad and new signings, setting the tone for their campaign against established continental opponents .