Sunderland vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction

Sunderland earned a direct Europa League spot by finishing seventh in the Premier League last season, one point clear of Brighton. Their domestic form this term has been uneven: four games into the new campaign, they have one win, two losses, and a 1–1 draw with Brentford. Most recently they lost 0–2 to Arsenal, squandering a penalty at 0–0 in the 56th minute before conceding twice more. AZ Alkmaar arrive in strong form, winning eight of their last ten matches with only two draws and no defeats. The Dutch side averages 2.88 goals per game over that stretch while conceding just 0.92 per match.

Form and H2H

Sunderland's home record shows five wins, one draw, and four losses in their last ten games, averaging 1.10 goals for and 1.06 against. AZ Alkmaar's away form is markedly superior: eight wins, two draws, and zero losses, with an average of 2.88 goals scored and 0.92 conceded. The visitors have been profitable backing their wins and draws on the road, while Sunderland's home record shows profit on the match winner market but losses on under 1.5 goals bets, suggesting their matches tend toward higher scoring.

Best bet

Over 2.5 goals. Sunderland's recent matches have trended toward open play and multiple goals, while AZ Alkmaar's away form demonstrates consistent attacking output. At 1xBet, a home win pays 1.62, but the total goals market offers better value given both sides' recent patterns.

Odds to watch

Sunderland are favoured at home but not heavily: 1xBet offers 1.62 for a home win, 1Win at 1.7, and Mostbet at 1.56. The draw sits at 4.3 with 1xBet and 3.95 with 1Win. AZ Alkmaar's away record suggests an upset is possible, with 1xBet pricing the away win at 5.5 and 1Win at 4.4. Kickoff is 16 September 2026 at 22:00.