Torreense vs Sunderland Predictions

• Sunderland have scored more than once in only one of their eight fixtures so far
• Enzo Le Fee (2) and the injured Brian Brobbey (3) have scored the majority of Sunderland’s eight goals
• Torreense are 15th in Portugal’s second tier
• The Black Cats have claimed 1-0 wins against Fulham, Hull and AZ Alkmaar this season

Blunt Black Cats are in a tricky position

Sunderland’s last away game in Europe was a 2-0 defeat at Sporting Lisbon in 1973, and their travelling fans have been treated to another visit to Portugal 53 years later. This time around, Sunderland take on last season’s shock Portuguese Cup winners, second division side Torreense.

The Portuguese side fell short in last season’s promotion playoffs, making them one of the few sides to play European football while outside of their nation’s top flight.

A Primeira Liga return looks unlikely for Torreense, as they sit 15th after seven games. The hosts have picked up only two wins all season, although one of those did come in their Europa League debut as they won 2-1 at Lillestrom.

Torreense are playing their home games away from their usual stadium, and it’s little surprise that they’re heavy outsiders against Premier League opposition.

However, Sunderland have struggled in front of goal all season. The Black Cats have scored no more than once in seven of their eight games across all competitions, picking up three 1-0 wins.

With striker Brian Brobbey sidelined, Sunderland fell to a 2-0 defeat at home to Brighton in their return to action on Saturday. He’s scored three of their eight goals this term, so a low-scoring away win appeals in his absence.