Stadium of Light — Sunderland 3–0 West Ham United
Mayenda (63′), Ballard (70′), Isidor (88′)
On a scorching afternoon at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland announced their return to the Premier League in emphatic fashion, dismantling a toothless West Ham side 3–0 and sending a clear message that they aren’t here just to survive — they’re here to compete.
Goals from Eliezer Mayenda, Dan Ballard, and substitute Wilson Isidor stunned a disjointed Hammers outfit, who never recovered from a flat second half and were tactically outclassed by Tony Mowbray’s side.
For Sunderland, it was a day to remember: a dream start in front of a roaring home crowd, who had waited seven years for moments like this.
Mayenda Opens the Floodgates
After a balanced but cautious first half — where both sides created half-chances but lacked a clinical edge — it was Sunderland who came out with purpose after the break. The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute, and it was pure determination and precision.
Omar Alderete delivered an inviting cross from the left and Mayenda, just 19 years old, rose highest to guide a brilliant header into the far corner past a helpless Mads Hermansen. It was a goal worthy of the Premier League and sparked wild celebrations in the stands.
Ballard Punishes Passive West Ham
Just seven minutes later, the Stadium of Light erupted again.
West Ham failed to clear a Sunderland corner, and the ball fell kindly to Dan Ballard, who powered a header through a crowd of defenders. His celebration said it all — a moment of redemption and elation for the centre-back, who has become a fan favourite since joining from Arsenal.
Sunderland were flying, and West Ham were shellshocked.
Wilson Isidor Caps It Off
Any faint hopes of a Hammers comeback were crushed in the 88th minute when French forward Wilson Isidor, on as a substitute, put the final nail in the coffin. Given far too much space, he carried the ball into the box and curled a stunning strike into the bottom corner — a goal that summed up West Ham’s defensive frailty and Sunderland’s confidence.
The home crowd, already in full voice, chanted “We are top of the league” as the final whistle approached.
A Nightmare Start for Potter
West Ham boss Graham Potter — facing pressure even before the season started after a turbulent summer — cut a frustrated figure on the touchline. His side lacked identity, cohesion, and urgency.
Lucas Paquetá was anonymous, Jarrod Bowen tried but lacked support, and the midfield was consistently second best. Their defensive structure — or lack thereof — left Hermansen exposed far too often.
Mowbray’s Masterclass
Tony Mowbray, by contrast, got everything right. His side were well-organized, pressed intelligently, and transitioned with purpose. Habib Diarra and Granit Xhaka dominated the midfield battle, while young talents like Mayenda and Isidor took their chances with maturity beyond their years.
Key Moments:
- 63’ – GOAL Sunderland 1-0: Mayenda rises to head in a precise cross.
- 70’ – GOAL Sunderland 2-0: Ballard reacts fastest from a corner to double the lead.
- 88’ – GOAL Sunderland 3-0: Isidor caps a perfect performance with a composed finish.
What They Said:
Tony Mowbray (Sunderland manager):
“It’s a special day for the club. We’ve waited a long time for this, and the lads delivered. But it’s just one game — we stay grounded.”
Graham Potter (West Ham manager):
“We weren’t good enough. It’s disappointing, but we’ll have to look at everything — from the basics to the balance of the team. No excuses.”
Player of the Match: Eliezer Mayenda
A constant threat, scored the crucial opener, and never stopped running. A star in the making.
Looking Ahead:
- Sunderland travel to face Crystal Palace next, riding a wave of confidence.
- West Ham return home to face Chelsea in what already feels like a must-win.
Verdict:
This wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. Sunderland are back in the big time, and if this performance is anything to go by, they plan on staying.