Europa League: Noah Sadiki and Jules Ahoka turn the tide against Torreense to give Sunderland victory

15.10.26 FT Europa League

Torreense

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Sunderland

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Sunderland came from behind to beat Torreense (2-1) on Thursday, October 15, 2026, on the second matchday of the Europa League league phase. DR Congo internationals Jules Ahoka and Noah Sadiki scored the Black Cats' two goals, with the former equalising in the 67th minute and the latter netting the decisive goal in the 90th+3 minute.

Trailing at half-time after Volnei Feltes opened the scoring in the 37th minute, Sunderland found the resources needed to turn the game around. Brought on during the match, Jules Ahoka levelled the score before Noah Sadiki secured the win for his side in stoppage time with a magnificent volley from a ball laid back by Granit Xhaka.

Noah Sadiki, a regular starter in the Premier League

Having joined Sunderland with the ambition of establishing himself in midfield, Noah Sadiki has become a regular in Régis Le Bris's starting XI. Before the match against Torreense, the 21-year-old midfielder had played in the first six Premier League matches, totalling around 500 minutes on the pitch. He had also featured in the win over AZ Alkmaar (1-0) on the first matchday of the Europa League.

Until this European evening, the DR Congo international had not yet scored for Sunderland this season. His volley in the 90th+3 minute therefore opened his account for the Black Cats and marked his first Europa League goal. It was also a reward for his consistency, as he plays an important role in maintaining the balance of the midfield.

Read also: Galatasaray showing strong interest in DR Congo's Noah Sadiki!

Jules Ahoka gets his season off the mark with a first European goal

For Jules Ahoka, this evening was also a special occasion. The young DR Congo defensive midfielder, signed during the summer after his spell at Royal Antwerp, is still looking to earn more playing time in the English squad. His early appearances this season have been limited, particularly in the league, where he had yet to establish himself consistently in the rotation.

Against Torreense, Ahoka took advantage of his introduction to make an impact. His 67th-minute header brought Sunderland back into the game, with the team struggling after an opening period in which it had offered little in attack. It was his first Europa League goal and a positive sign in his quest for greater responsibility.

Thanks to their two DR Congo internationals, Sunderland have now recorded a second consecutive Europa League victory after their win over AZ Alkmaar. The Black Cats now have six points after two matchdays, while Sadiki and Ahoka can celebrate scoring their first goals in the competition.

Read also: Jules Ahoka: the big leap to the Premier League

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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