Sunderland
AZ Alkmaar
>Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar Predictions, Picks & Odds – 16/09/2026
Europa League · 1Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar – Best bets of the match
Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar Preview
Sunderland's return to European competition after a 52-year absence makes this a landmark evening at the Stadium of Light. Regis Le Bris's side have shown decent domestic form, sitting fifth in the Premier League with three wins from their last five outings, though their attacking output has been modest. The confirmed absence of Habib Diarra through a long-term injury is a blow, and the Black Cats have averaged just a goal per game recently.
AZ Alkmaar arrive on Wearside in formidable shape. The Dutch side have rattled off five consecutive victories in competitive action, scoring at a prolific rate of over three goals per match during that stretch. Their position of thirteenth in the Europa League standings belies their current momentum, and they will fancy their chances of exploiting Sunderland's relative inexperience on the continental stage. This is a side brimming with confidence and attacking intent.
Sunderland's domestic form has been respectable, sitting fifth in the Premier League with three wins from their last five outings. Yet their attacking output of roughly one goal per match raises concerns against a side as potent as AZ Alkmaar. The absence of Habib Diarra through long-term injury further weakens their creative options, making it harder to break down a well-organised Dutch defence on this historic European night.
AZ Alkmaar's credentials speak volumes. Five consecutive competitive victories and an average of 3.2 goals per game across that run highlight a squad brimming with confidence and cutting edge. That kind of firepower should trouble a Sunderland side still finding its feet at the highest level. The draw at 4.21 offers a sensible entry point, while the away win at 5.22 carries genuine appeal given AZ's momentum.
Our recommended pick leans towards the double chance covering both a draw and an AZ victory. Sunderland's European inexperience, combined with their limited goal threat and a key absentee, tilts this fixture in the visitors' favour. AZ possess the squad depth and recent pedigree to collect something from their trip to Wearside, whether that comes as a share of the spoils or all three points.
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Trends to Know about Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar
- AZ averaging 3.2 goals across five wins
- Sunderland scoring just 1.0 goals per game
- Habib Diarra absence weakens Sunderland's midfield options
Form & Statistics: Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar
Sunderland
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
AZ Alkmaar
Season statistics
How to Watch Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar Match?
What time is Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar?
Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar kicks off at 20:00 local time on 16 September 2026 at the Stadium of Light.
Where is Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar being played?
This Europa League fixture takes place at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, England.
How Can I Watch Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar on TV and Live Stream?
This match will be broadcast on TNT Sports and available for live streaming via the Discovery+ platform.