Sunderland continued their impressive return to European football with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Torreense, as Noah Sadiki struck a stunning 93rd-minute winner in Portugal.

Regis Le Bris’ side looked set to drop points in their second Europa League fixture after falling behind to a spectacular first-half goal. However, Jules Ahoka’s equaliser and Sadiki’s late intervention ensured the Black Cats maintained their perfect start to the competition.

The victory also saw Sunderland achieve something no English club had managed at the same pace in major European competition for seven years.

Sunderland Break a Seven-Year English Football Record

Sunderland’s win over Torreense marked their fifth victory in just six major European fixtures, making them the fastest English club to reach that milestone.

Their European adventure began with a 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar, providing the perfect start to their first continental campaign in more than 50 years.

The Black Cats had already enjoyed success during their previous European involvement in the 1973/74 Cup Winners’ Cup, winning three of their four matches that season.

Now, after returning to the European stage, Le Bris’ side are quickly adding another memorable chapter to the club’s history.

The milestone places Sunderland ahead of every other English club to reach five wins in their first six major European fixtures in the same period.

Their latest victory also draws on a history that began with three wins in four matches during the 1973/74 Cup Winners’ Cup campaign. The result marks another significant step in the Black Cats’ return to continental football.

Ahoka and Sadiki Complete Sunderland’s Late Comeback

Sunderland had to work hard for their victory in Leiria, with Portuguese side Torreense proving a difficult opponent.

The hosts took the lead shortly before half-time when centre-back Volnei Feltes produced a stunning strike from distance, leaving Sunderland with work to do after the break.

Le Bris responded with a series of substitutions, bringing additional experience and attacking quality into the game.

The changes soon paid off.

Nordi Mukiele delivered a cross that allowed Ahoka to guide a header into the net in the 67th minute, bringing Sunderland level and setting up a tense finish.

The visitors continued pushing for a winner, and their persistence was finally rewarded deep into stoppage time.

Granit Xhaka helped create the decisive opportunity, setting up Sadiki inside the area. The DR Congo international needed little encouragement, firing a superb half-volley beyond the goalkeeper in the 93rd minute.

It was Sadiki’s first goal for Sunderland and a memorable way to secure all three points.

Can Sunderland Turn European Momentum Into Premier League Results?

The victory leaves Sunderland with maximum points from their opening two Europa League fixtures after their win over AZ Alkmaar.

However, attention will quickly turn back to domestic action, with Le Bris’ side facing a trip to Bournemouth on Sunday.

The Black Cats have endured a more difficult start to their Premier League campaign, recording one win from their opening six matches and suffering three consecutive defeats.

Their European performances have offered a welcome contrast, with the late victory over Torreense demonstrating the resilience that Sunderland will hope to bring into their league fixtures.

With confidence growing on the continental stage, the challenge now is to translate that momentum into improved domestic results.

After a night that delivered another historic moment for the club, Sunderland will be eager to prove their European heroics can provide the platform for a stronger Premier League run.