Excitement is rising for Sunderland fans as they hope for a final twist in their first season back in the top flight of football.
It promises to be a cracking last match in the 2025/2026 season in which Sunderland take on Chelsea, hoping to secure a win and possibly European football next season.
Older fans will remember the last time the Black Cats ventured onto foreign soil for a competitive European tie which came after that famous victory over Leeds United at Wembley in 1973.
But how many of these quirky facts did you know about Sunderland’s run, albeit brief, in the European Cup Winners Cup 53 years ago? Have a look at our photo gallery for memories of the year when the Mackems got to travel to Hungary and Portugal.
And then, get in touch to share your own memories of that European cup run by emailing [email protected]
1. Having fun before the match
It was a stay to remember in Peterlee for these Sporting Lisbon stars. | se
2. Going close
The Sporting keeper comes out to clear the ball after a Sunderland attack. | se
3. Nice to meet you
The children of Peterlee got to meet the Sporting Lisbon stars in 1973. | se
4. Thick of the action
Billy Hughes is in the thick of the action at Roker Park with Ian Porterfield also close by. | se