Europa League Clockwatch: Sunderland vs AZ, Milan vs Benfica Live 2026

Europa League clockwatch brings you live coverage as Sunderland host AZ Alkmaar and Milan face Benfica in a thrilling night of European football. The Stadium of Light is set for a fiery encounter, with captain Granit Xhaka issuing a rallying cry to his teammates and fans.

Sunderland's Return to Europe

Sunderland's only previous European campaign came in 1973-74, when they balanced a Division Two campaign with fixtures against Hungary's Vasas and Sporting of Portugal. A 2-0 victory in Lisbon was enough to end Sunderland's continental ambitions … until now. After an extraordinary return to the Premier League and a seventh-place finish, Sunderland have another ticket to Europe, this time with eight fixtures guaranteed.

First to visit the Stadium of Light are Dutch outfit AZ, mainstays of the Europa and Conference Leagues, who will offer a fair test of their hosts' readiness for the long road towards the final in Frankfurt.

Xhaka's Rallying Cry

The Sunderland captain, Granit Xhaka, has fired an incendiary warning to tonight's visitors: "The stadium will be on fire. And I want to see our players on fire, on and off the ball. I've always been a dreamer and, for me, it's a big, big dream to reach another European final and to get it with this club."

Xhaka's leadership and experience will be crucial as Sunderland navigate a challenging Europa League campaign.

Milan vs Benfica: A Clash of Titans

There are some big dogs in this year's 36-team league phase – perhaps none bigger than seven-times European champions, Milan, who host Benfica in a high-ticket opening game. The San Siro will be rocking as two European heavyweights collide.

Milan, under new management, will look to assert their dominance early, while Benfica aim to spoil the party. This match could set the tone for both teams' campaigns.

Other Key Fixtures

We'll also get a first look at Lyon (away to Anderlecht) and Leverkusen (hosting Celje of Slovenia), so keep it locked. The Europa League league phase promises excitement and surprises.

Comparison of Key Matches

Key Takeaways

• Sunderland return to European competition for the first time since 1973-74.
• Granit Xhaka's leadership will be vital for Sunderland's success.
• Milan vs Benfica is a marquee matchup between European giants.
• Lyon and Leverkusen also begin their campaigns with tricky fixtures.

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