Torreense lose 2-1 to Sunderland after Sadiki's stoppage-time winner in Leiria

Volnei's strike from distance

Torreense, the Segunda Liga club from Torres Vedras, lost 2-1 to Sunderland on Thursday, 15 October, in the second matchday of the Europa League league phase. The match was played in Leiria, which served as a borrowed home ground, and it was the first European match the club had hosted on Portuguese soil. Sunderland were making their first away trip in a European competition since 1973, according to Notícias ao Minuto. The first half was goalless for long spells until Volnei Feltes, a Brazilian central defender, struck from outside the box in the 37th minute. Sunderland goalkeeper Roefs watched the ball hit the net, and the goal has been put forward as a candidate for the Puskás Award.

Sunderland turn it around

Sunderland increased their attacking pressure after the interval and sent on several experienced substitutes. Jules Ahoka headed in the equaliser in the 67th minute from a cross by Mukiele, making the score 1-1. Torreense held on through a long spell of pressure, with goalkeeper Lucas Paes making important saves. Noah Sadiki then scored in the third minute of added time (90+3'), giving Sunderland a 2-1 win.

1. 37th minuteVolnei Feltes scores from outside the box, Torreense lead 1-0
2. 67th minuteJules Ahoka heads in the equaliser, score 1-1
3. 90+3rd minuteNoah Sadiki scores the winner, Sunderland win 2-1

Budgets and the coach's view

Before the match, assistant coach Carlos Simões, who works under head coach Luís Tralhão, spoke at the pre-match press conference about the gap between the two clubs. He said:

We are not even going to compare budgets. A month's salary of one Sunderland player pays for two years of Torreense's budget.

The gap also shows in broadcast income. Torreense receive a fixed 500,000 euros from the rights to Segunda Liga matches, while Sunderland were entitled to a total pool of 200 million this season. Simões said the team would keep its game model while adapting to an opponent with strong individual players, and that Torreense had come to the Europa League to compete.

Standings and individual performances

Sunderland now have six points after two matchdays, while Torreense remain on three from their opening win in Norway against Lilleström.

Sunderland

6

Torreense

3

Sunderland

6 points

Torreense

3 points

A match analysis singled out Volnei Feltes for his anticipation and preparation before the goal. It also praised Amine Oudrhiri for a mature midfield display, as he moved between the centre-backs, out wide and in front of the defence. Mukiele, the Sunderland full-back, was credited with several runs to the byline and a cross for the equaliser. The stadium was not full, but the analysis said the British presence in the stands was impressive.