Photo via Sky Sports

Sunderland begin European adventure with AZ Alkmaar win

Sunderland celebrated their return to continental competition after a 53-year absence with a 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar on Wednesday. Enzo Le Fee netted the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 66th minute after winning the foul himself, having previously hit the woodwork during an assertive opening period for the hosts.

Following a league defeat against Arsenal, manager Regis Le Bris rotated four players into his starting lineup, handing starts to Omar Alderete, Trai Hume, Malick Fofana, and Wilson Isidor, while Granit Xhaka also featured in the European debut.

The visitors, who included Kees Smit and Ayoub Oufkir in two changes from their prior Dutch league outing, mounted strong second-half pressure, with Smit dragging an effort just off target. Sunderland goalkeeper Roefs produced vital interventions, including an early save with his legs and three consecutive reflex stops late on to deny Mexx Meerdink.

AZ squandered additional late opportunities when Pinto Batista missed the target from six yards and Sunderland scrambled an Angulo effort off the goal line. Next month, the Black Cats will travel to face Torreense for their second Europa League fixture.