Sunderland's Europa League tie with Torreense is a 'landmark moment' for both clubs

Sunderland will provide the opposition for a ‘landmark moment’ for Portuguese second tier side Torreense when the two clubs meet on matchday two of this season’s Europa League on Thursday evening.

The Black Cats have embarked on only the second European campaign in their history after a seventh place finish in last season’s Premier League gained entry to the league phase of this season’s Europa League. Their ‘hosts’ caused one of the greatest shocks in European football’s recent history when they became the first Portuguese second tier club to lift the Taca de Portgual (Portuguese Cup) with a 2-1 win against an all-conquering Sporting CP side in May.

Further history was to follow when Luis Tralhao’s side battled their way to a win at Lillestrom on the opening night of the Europa League - and they are now ready for ‘something extraordinary’ with the hours ticking down until they make their ‘home’ debut in European football against the Black Cats.

Speaking ahead of the game to BBC Sport, Torreense director of football, Andre Sabino, said: "This is a landmark moment. It is something extraordinary for Torreense. These are clubs with huge histories, strong identities and enormous European experience. To be able to share the same competition and compete against them is a privilege. But we don't want to simply participate. We want to compete."

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If there is one negative for Torreense, it has come with the news that their Estadio Manuel Marques does not meet UEFA’s regulations to host Europa League fixtures - and that is why this evening’s game is taking place 47 miles from their hometown at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.

"Obviously, it is not ideal,” Sabino said of the temporary move. “Playing at home should mean playing in your own stadium, in front of your own supporters and in the environment that represents your club. But at the same time, we understand the logistical and regulatory requirements involved in European competition. We have to look at the bigger picture. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to compete in the Europa League, and we will make Leiria feel as much like home as possible."

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