Sunderland v AZ Alkmaar: confirmed starting lineups and pre-match updates for Europa League opener
Sunderland AFC will host AZ Alkmaar at the Stadium of Light in the first league-phase fixture of the UEFA Europa League 2026-27 on 16 September 2026. The match preview includes confirmed starting lineups and pre-match updates.
Régis Le Bris’s side have produced inconsistent results since the start of the season and arrive having lost 0-2 to Arsenal in the Premier League. Sunderland were unable to control the game’s tempo against Arsenal, lacked urgency in the final third and managed 12 attempts with only three on target, none of which produced a goal. Being at home is expected to provide a confidence boost, but the side must work to establish control from the beginning.
AZ Alkmaar enter the tie on the back of four wins in their last five matches and will aim to carry that form into the Europa League. Lee-Roy Echteld’s squad have shown attacking cohesion, though the report notes they must also address defensive aspects. Despite travelling to England, AZ are not expected to yield the contest without a challenge.
The 33-year-old played a notable role for Sunderland against Arsenal, helping his side take control of midfield and recording the joint-most defensive contributions (11) in that match. Granit Xhaka is identified as a player who will be ready to lead Sunderland in European competition and is viewed as someone who can alter the game.
For AZ Alkmaar, Ro-Zangelo Daal did not score in his previous outing but was described as a menace in the final third, operating as an engine on the left flank. The preview states he will be keen to replicate those attacking efforts in the Europa League opener.
Khel Now provided the confirmed starting lineups and ongoing pre-match updates ahead of the fixture. For further coverage the outlet directed readers to follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, to download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App, and to join its community on Telegram.
These clubs have never met before, and the encounter at the Stadium of Light will serve as Sunderland’s opening league-phase match in the UEFA Europa League 2026-27.
