No previous meetings between these teams.
Player stats will appear once the competition begins.
Sunderland- Romaine Mundle
- Habib Diarra
AZ- Kees Smit
- Denso Kasius
- Stije Resink
Previous lineup is not available.
Sunderland face AZ Alkmaar in a Europa League league-phase opener at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday, kicking off at 8pm UK time, with the hosts fancied on their European return.
Anthony Eadson has the best bets, a score prediction and the head-to-head record for this Europa League tie below.
Premium Tips
Anthony Eadson expects Sunderland to shut out AZ and win at the Stadium of Light.
| Premium Tip | Odds | Why we’re backing it |
|---|---|---|
| Both teams to score – No | 11/10 (Betfair) | Sunderland have been resolute at the Stadium of Light and AZ can struggle for goals when travelling to hostile atmospheres in Europe. The Dutch side favour possession but often lack a cutting edge on the road, and if Sunderland keep it tight the visitors may not find a way through. No both teams to score appeals at 11/10. |
| Sunderland to win 2-0 | 15/2 (bet365) | A clean-sheet home win is well within Sunderland’ range given their solid base and lively front line on home soil. AZ carry a threat but can be opened up when chasing the game, and 2-0 rates the most likely winning scoreline for the hosts. At 15/2 it offers strong value on a controlled European night at the Stadium of Light. |
18+ only. Please gamble responsibly. GambleAware — gambleaware.org · Odds correct at time of publishing.
How Sunderland go into the game
Sunderland were beaten 2-0 at home by Arsenal in the Premier League last time out, but the Stadium of Light will be rocking for the European return.
Dangerous and well-backed at home, Sunderland will fancy their chances of a winning start.
How AZ Alkmaar go into the game
AZ Alkmaar drew 1-1 with Willem II in the Eredivisie last time out. They travel to Wearside in steady form.
Technically sound and dangerous going forward, AZ carry a threat but face a hostile atmosphere.
Head-to-head
Sunderland and AZ have not met in recent record.
Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar predictions & betting tips
| Our Prediction | Odds & Bookmaker | Confidence | Why We’re Backing It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Both teams to score – No | 11/10 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Sunderland are resolute at home; AZ can misfire on the road. |
| Sunderland to win 2-0 | 15/2 | ⭐⭐ | A clean-sheet home win is well within range. |
| Sunderland to win | 4/6 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Home advantage and atmosphere favour the Black Cats. |
| Sunderland to win to nil | 2/1 | ⭐⭐ | AZ may not find a way through a tight home defence. |
Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar score prediction
AZ carry a threat, but Sunderland’s home advantage on a big European night should just about tell. Score prediction: Sunderland 2-0 AZ Alkmaar.
