Kick-off on September 16, 2026, at 22:00.

The Stadium of Light will host a first-round match of the UEFA Europa League league phase: Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar. The English club relies on intense physical football and powerful support from its home crowd. The Dutch side traditionally builds its game through combination-based ball control and quick one-two passing. As a result, fans can expect a dynamic European contest with high activity in midfield.

Sunderland places emphasis on tight pressing and aggressive challenges in the opponent's half of the pitch. It handles the physical demands of the game very well and constantly imposes physical, contact-heavy battles on opponents in every area of the pitch. In matches against technically skilled opponents, it sometimes struggles to cover open spaces. To achieve success, it is important for the hosts to organize proper cover when possession changes. The English side needs to seize the initiative from the first minutes and perform extremely reliably on the flanks.

Watch the Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar match on 16.09.2026 online on MEGOGO. AZ Alkmaar stands out for its high productivity and quality development of vertical attacks. The Dutch club skillfully exploits open lanes in opponents' defenses, creating sustained pressure on the opposing penalty area. At the same time, its focus on attacking actions periodically leaves its own defensive block vulnerable. It will need to show maximum discipline when playing without the ball. It is extremely important for the Alkmaar side to keep strict control of the defensive midfield zone and make careful use of the chances it creates. Watch the broadcast of the Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar match on 16.09.2026 online on MEGOGO.