Sunderland’s impressive tifo ahead of their return to European action against AZ Alkmaar (photo by ‘atomuk’ via Reddit)

Sunderland’s return to European football after 25 years was always going to be an emotionally charged occasion, but the atmosphere at the Stadium of Light made it feel like something much bigger.

A sea of red and white, a wall of noise and a reminder of just how much football means to supporters that have had to wait so long for such an occasion

Sunderland marked their return with a 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League — but it was the scenes in the stands that made this our Photo of the Week.

The Black Cats dominated much of the first half but were unable to find a breakthrough, with Enzo Le Fée hitting the post and Jari De Busser making several important saves. AZ threatened more after the break, but Sunderland finally got their reward in the 66th minute when Le Fée was brought down in the box and stepped up to convert the resulting penalty. Robin Roefs then produced a series of crucial saves to preserve the lead, ensuring Sunderland’s first European appearance in 53 years ended with three points.

Recommended Reading

The real value of Lucas Bergvall’s new Spurs contract Arsenal: Angelic valuation incoming? In Lim-bo? Chelsea’s dugout turmoil again pipped by Valencia Liverpool’s latest £300m deal shows how football’s financial gap is widening

Some nights are about the result. Others are about remembering why you wanted to be there in the first place.