Credit: Imago

Harri Burton

Sat 16 August 2025 17:18, UK

Regis Le Bris’ Sunderland claimed a historic victory over West Ham in their Premier League opener at the Stadium of Light.

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The Hammers had plenty of chances to take the lead on Saturday, 16 August, but not even Jarrod Bowen or Niclas Fullkrug could take advantage to hand an early blow to the newly promoted side.

Jenson Seelt’s early substitution was certainly a disappointment, but just eight minutes later, Eliezer Mayenda had the ball in the back of the net, and the stadium had erupted.

Dan Ballard, who was the hero against Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final, then beat Mads Hermansen with a brilliant header, and Wilson Isidor managed to add a late third as well.

The 3-0 defeat surely piled the pressure on Graham Potter at the London Stadium.

Robin Roefs – 8

Had very little to do against an extremely poor Hammers side, but he made some great saves when called upon and remained vigilant.

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Trai Hume – 8

Hume showcased exactly why the Black Cats have extended his contract at the Stadium of Light, leading by example in defence.

Dan Ballard – 9 – Player of the Match

Absolutely incredible.

Could have been more involved in the final third, but defended very well.

Granit Xhaka – 8

An obvious leader in the centre of the field, taking control as captain, orchestrating play, and getting stuck into challenges like he’s known for in the Premier League.

Habib Diarra – 8

So exciting to see the Frenchman in the Premier League.

(Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media)

Simon Adingra (Off for Le Fee 76?) – 2

Completely silenced, marked out of the game by West Ham’s defenders, and not given a minute to breathe.

Grabbed an assist, but it was a simple cross into the box.

Eliezer Mayenda (Off for Isidor 76?) – 7

Was extremely quiet for much of the game.

However, after popping up with the opener, he inspired the win over West Ham in a welcome back to the Premier League.

Substitutes

Omar Alderete (Off for Seelt 53?) – 7

Eight minutes after coming on, the new signing grabbed his first assist for the club from centre-back.

Instant impact.

(Credit Hasan Karim, Breaking Media)

Enzo Le Fee (On for Adingra 76?) – 6

Got on the ball with confidence, but couldn’t quite get involved properly.

Wilson Isidor (On for Mayenda 76?) – 8

Made an instant impact, breaking free from a West Ham corner, to slot under Mads Hermansen, who will have felt he could do much better.

Chris Rigg (On for Talbi 90+4?) – N/A

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