Sunderland made it two from two in the Europa League league phase with a 2-1 win over SCU Torreense in Leiria on Thursday night.
The Black Cats fell behind to a brilliant strike from centre back Volnei early in the game, but goals from Jules Ahoka and in stoppage time from Noah Saidki turned the game around.
Here’s how we rated all the Black Cats involved on the night...
5. CB - Omar Alderete
Had a frustrating game at times as he was constantly pulled up for fouls from attacking set plays. Fairly steady on the ball if not at his very best, and rarely tested defensively. 6 | Sunderland's Omar Alderete. Photo by Chris Fryatt.
6. LB - Dayann Methalie
Made some good defensive interventions including one important tackle at the start of the second half but wasn’t able to get forward as much as Sunderland would have hoped and had a quiet game in that regard. 5 | Sunderland Echo, Chris Fryatt
7. CM - Jules Ahoka
Started brightly, doing the basics very well. Faded a little and couldn’t halt Volnei’s run for the goal, but responded very strongly when freed up to play forward by Xhaka’s introduction. A real penalty box threat, scoring one and nearly adding another. Looks a find. 7 | Chris Fryatt
8. CM - Noah Sadiki
Truly sensational late scenes as he thumped in a winner and raved over the advertising boards to celebrate with the fans. Deserved reward for his drive throughout the game - another who improved with Xhaka behind him. 7 | Sunderland Echo, Chris Fryatt