‘It means everything’ – Hume revels in Sunderland’s winning return to Europe

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Sunderland defender Trai Hume says their Europa League win over AZ meant “everything”.

Playing their first game in Europe in over 50 years, Sunderland made a winning start to their campaign, with Enzo Le Fee’s penalty securing a 1-0 win over AZ.

The Black Cats impressed at the Stadium of Light, accumulating 3.0 expected goals (xG) from 20 shots, 13 of which came in the first half – the most by a team on their Europa League home debut since Real Sociedad v Rosenborg in September 2017 (also 13).

Sunderland had more chances to add to their tally, with Le Fee also hitting the woodwork, while Wilson Isidor and Nilson Angulo – whose shot was cleared off the line – also missed their openings.

But Hume was just delighted to get three points on the board as he soaked in the feeling of a first European match for Sunderland.

“It means everything. The journey that we have been on over the last couple of years has led to this moment,” Hume told TNT Sports. “These fans deserve this moment.

“It’s a bit crazy [playing in Europe], to be honest. If you had asked me five years ago if we would be here, I would have said no, and now that we are here, I’m just trying to enjoy every moment.

“We have a great team, great staff and unbelievable fans. We fully deserve this moment, and we are going to keep pushing this season.”

Sunderland AFC have arrived in the Europa League ‍ pic.twitter.com/p0oJQxmHwJ

— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 16, 2026

Le Fee’s strike from the spot came 52 years and 348 days after Sunderland’s only other penalty goal in major European competitions.

The Frenchman had a penalty saved against Arsenal in the Premier League last weekend, which ultimately proved costly, but he shone in the Europa League.

He led the match in shots (four), touches in the box (eight), chances created (four – level with Nordi Mukiele), crosses (11), successful dribbles (4/5) and duels won (12/18).

“I’m very happy for the team and all the fans because they deserve this. It’s always nice to score,” Le Fee told TNT Sports.

“You could hear the fans. They deserved to live this after a tough period. We are really happy to get the three points in front of them.”

UEFA Europa League News

Amorim willing to ‘adapt’ after Milan’s sluggish Europa League loss

UEFA Europa League News

Wharton ‘never really thought about’ leaving Palace

UEFA Europa League News

‘Learning to accept pressure is medicine’ – Juve boss Spalletti not distracted by critics

UEFA Europa League News

Palace captain Henderson signs new four-year deal

UEFA Europa League News

‘I want to see our players on fire’ – Xhaka embracing Europa League challenge

UEFA Europa League News

Leverkusen boss Martinez unfazed by managerial change at Celje

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By using our website you agree to our use of cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.