Are Sunderland dominating the match against AZ?

Yes — Sunderland have territorial control, more quality chances and are pressing AZ into a defensive posture.

What do Sunderland need to do to score the opener?

Sustain the high press, exploit overloads on the flanks, and convert set-piece opportunities while avoiding turnovers that invite AZ counters.

Will AZ pose a big threat on the break?

AZ remain dangerous on transition; Sunderland must manage space behind their full-backs and use calm, composed play after regaining possession.

Sunderland Ascendant — Pressing, Poised and Ready to Break AZ's Resistance

Sunderland's European curtain-raiser carries a clear tone: aggressive, organised and unforgiving. From the first whistle they have taken the game to AZ, winning territory and fashioning the better openings, forcing the visitors onto the back foot in their return to continental competition.

Tactically this is a display of controlled pressure rather than frantic chaos. Full-backs are high, the midfield screens passing lanes and the forwards rotate to overload wide areas; AZ remain dangerous on the break but have been hemmed in more often than not.

Clear chances have come from set-pieces and quick combinations down the right, with the home goalkeeper and one smart stop keeping the score level so far. The pattern is unmistakable: Sunderland are creating the higher-quality opportunities, while AZ wait for space to exploit on transition.

The Guru's call is simple — keep the pressure, avoid the avoidable turnover, and the opener will arrive. I expect Sunderland to force the breakthrough before the interval and to control the tempo thereafter; pragmatic substitutions to refresh legs and guard against counters will seal a narrow but deserved victory.