Mateo Chávez's tough Europa League debut highlights AZ Alkmaar's woes

AZ Alkmaar arrived at the Stadium of Light for their opening UEFA Europa League fixture only to suffer a 1‑0 defeat, while Mexican left‑back Mateo Chávez marked his first appearance in the competition by completing the full ninety minutes. The loss contrasted sharply with Chávez's personal milestone, as the youngster earned a full debut amid his side's collective disappointment.

AZ Alkmaar's narrow loss

The Dutch side were undone by a penalty in the first half when Weslley Patati fouled Enzo Le Fée inside the area, allowing the French attacker to convert from the spot and give Sunderland the only goal of the match. It was Sunderland's first European game since 1973, and the solitary strike proved enough to seal the win at the historic ground.

Chávez's individual performance

Chávez started at left‑back and remained on the pitch for the entire encounter, focusing on defensive solidity against relentless pressure. He completed 81 % of his passes and committed only two fouls, delivering a disciplined, if understated, performance on his continental debut.

Early in the game, Ro‑Zangelo Daal capitalised on a turnover to challenge goalkeeper Robin Roefs, whose foot‑save kept the score level. Later, Le Fée struck the post before the interval, highlighting Sunderland's growing dominance.

Sunderland continued to press, forcing AZ keeper Jari De Busser into numerous saves as Nordi Mukiele, Kevin Danso and Le Fée combined for sustained attacks. The English side's intensity left the visitors chasing the game throughout both halves.

In the closing stages, AZ attempted to revive hopes through Valdemar Byskov, Mexx Meerdink and Daal, while Sunderland counter‑attacked with the likes of Brian Brobbey and Nilson Angulo, but no further goals materialised.

The match underscored a bitter collective result for Alkmaar, yet it also marked Chávez's first official European appearance, a personal achievement recorded in the Futbol report that was later added as a preferred source on Google.