Black Cats Schedule Clash with Portuguese Champions in July
Sunderland have officially announced a high-profile pre-season fixture against Sporting CP, the reigning champions of Portugal’s top division, as part of their build-up to the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Following last week’s broader update on summer plans, the Wearside club have now revealed further details, confirming they will lock horns with Sporting at the Estádio Algarve on Monday, July 21.
Official Club Announcement on Sporting CP Fixture
In a statement released on Monday, the club said:
“Sunderland AFC will take on Portuguese heavyweights Sporting CP at the Estádio Algarve on Monday 21 July, as part of the team’s pre-season camp ahead of their return to the Premier League. This friendly presents Régis Le Bris and his squad with a challenging test against top-tier European opposition. Kick-off time will be announced in due course.”
Sunderland are also due to play another match in Portugal on July 19, though their opponent for that game is yet to be confirmed.
Comprehensive Look at Sunderland’s Pre-Season Plans
The Black Cats’ pre-season will begin with the traditional North East double-header against Gateshead and South Shields on Saturday, July 12. The first-team squad will be split into two groups to contest both fixtures simultaneously.
Following those matches, the squad will travel to Portugal for a week-long training camp that includes two fixtures at the Estádio Algarve. Upon their return, Sunderland will travel to Edinburgh for a friendly against Heart of Midlothian at Tynecastle Park — a testimonial for former Black Cats goalkeeper Craig Gordon.
The pre-season schedule will also include a trip to face Hull City at the MKM Stadium, followed by a home clash at the Stadium of Light against La Liga side Real Betis on August 2. The club is also hoping to add one final pre-season game on the weekend of August 9-10, just before the new Premier League campaign kicks off.
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