Sunderland fans make historic trek to Portugal for first European tie in 53 years
Thousands of Sunderland fans travelled to Portugal for the club's first competitive European match on mainland Europe since 1971.
Sunderland AFC made history by playing their first mainland European match in 53 years. Sunderland faced Torreense, a Portuguese second division team, in the Europa League.
The match was held in Leiria, about 106 kilometres away because Torreense's home ground was too small. Fans traveled from across England.
Some flew from Newcastle and Liverpool, then drove or caught buses to reach the city. One supporter got a chest tattoo to mark the club's entry into European football.
Fans called the trip historic and special. Some fans booked flights for future away matches in Poland and Milan.
- 53 years
- First mainland match
- Leiria, Portugal
- Location
- 106 kilometres from Torreense
- Distance to venue
- 5 years ago
- Years since League One
Why it mattersSunderland's return to European football is a major milestone for the club. It was in the third tier just five years ago.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect, but this is the kind of historic sports moment that travelling Australian supporters might follow if they have European connections.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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