Sunderland kicked off their Europa League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win against AZ Alkmaar at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday. This match marked the Black Cats' return to European competition after a 53-year absence.
Enzo Le Fee was the hero of the night, converting a penalty in the 66th minute after being fouled by substitute Weslley Patati. The Frenchman coolly dispatched the ball into the bottom right corner to secure the victory in their maiden Europa League outing.
Sunderland displayed a dominant first-half performance, creating several chances, including a strike from Le Fee that rattled the post. AZ Alkmaar started the second half brightly and had opportunities, but Sunderland ultimately held on for the historic win.