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Status Quo opened the new arena and Kevin Ball captained the Black Cats in front of 41,600 people – the game ended 0-0, with a little known striker named Kevin Phillips making his debut.
Here, we take a look into the archive at some of the best photos from the day – can you spot yourself?
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1. Do you remember this?
Stadium of Light opening fans celebrating as a BMW drives around the pitch's perimeter? Are you one of the fans in this photo? Get in touch with [email protected] Photo: Sunderland Echo
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2. Fans celebrate the opening outside of the ground
From left: Paul Collins, Deborah Herbert, Suzanne Graham and Karen Walton. Photo: Sunderland Echo
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3. A sneak peak
Sunderland season ticket holders show their delight at being given a sneak preview of their seats at the new Stadium of Light. Photo: Sunderland Echo
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4. Recognise anybody from 1997?
Are any of your friends and family in this photograph from the 1997 Ajax? Get in touch with [email protected] Photo: Sunderland Echo