Nilson Angulo sends clear message to Sunderland fans after Leeds United win at Elland Road

Sunderland AFC writer; Sunderland Echo

Published 5th Mar 2026, 08:00 GMT

The Sunderland winger reacted on social media after the Black Cats’ impressive 1-0 win at Elland Road

Sunderland winger Nilson Angulo has sent a positive message to supporters after the Black Cats secured a hard-fought 1-0 win against Leeds United at Elland Road.

Régis Le Bris’ side produced a disciplined display on Tuesday night to claim a valuable three points, with Habib Diarra’s second-half penalty proving decisive in a tense contest in West Yorkshire. The result moved Sunderland onto 40 points for the season, a significant milestone for the newly-promoted side with nine Premier League games still to play.

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Angulo, who started on the right flank against Daniel Farke’s team, later took to social media to reflect on the result and his own progress adapting to life in England’s top flight. Posting on Instagram after the match, the Ecuador international wrote: “Big win for the team. Getting better every game and adapting to the Premier League. More to come.”

Angulo’s message reflects a growing sense of confidence within Sunderland’s squad following an impressive first campaign back in the Premier League. The winger has been gradually establishing himself as an option in Le Bris’ attacking rotation, with the Leeds victory another step in his adaptation to the demands of English football. The 22-year-old has had to be patient at times this season but has shown flashes of the pace and directness that persuaded Sunderland to bring him to Wearside. His performance at Elland Road formed part of a broader collective effort from a side missing several key players through injury.

Sunderland travelled to Leeds without a number of regular starters, including captain Granit Xhaka from the beginning, first-choice goalkeeper Robin Roefs and several defensive options. That meant opportunities for others in the squad, including debutant Melker Ellborg in goal, who produced a composed performance under the lights at one of the league’s most demanding venues.

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Despite Leeds enjoying spells of pressure, Sunderland defended resolutely and ultimately took their chance when it came. Diarra converted from the penalty spot after a VAR review judged Ethan Ampadu to have handled the ball inside the area.

The win also ended Sunderland’s long wait for an away league victory, their first on the road since October’s success at Chelsea, and further strengthened their position in the middle of the Premier League table. With nine games remaining, Sunderland’s focus will now turn to building on the momentum from their Elland Road success as they look to finish their first season back in the Premier League strongly.

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