Sunderland produced a dramatic late comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over S.C.U. Torreense, with Democratic Republic of Congo internationals Jules Ahoka and Noah Sadiki scoring in the second half to turn the contest around.
Torreense appeared to be in control after taking the lead in the 37th minute through Volnei, who finished off an assist from French-Moroccan midfielder Amine Oudrhiri.
The Portuguese side carried their 1-0 advantage into the break, leaving Sunderland with work to do in the second half.
However, the English side responded after the interval, with Ahoka finding the equaliser in the 67th minute. The Congolese midfielder converted a pass from defender Nordi Mukiele to bring Sunderland back on level terms at 1-1.
The goal shifted the momentum of the encounter, giving Sunderland renewed belief as they pushed for a winner.
With the match seemingly heading towards a draw, Sadiki delivered the decisive moment deep into stoppage time. In the 90+3rd minute, the DR Congo international connected with a pass from experienced midfielder Granit Xhaka and finished to put Sunderland ahead 2-1.
The late strike sparked celebrations as Sunderland completed an impressive turnaround, recovering from a first-half deficit to claim victory.
Ahoka and Sadiki’s goals highlighted the contributions of the Congolese duo, whose second-half efforts proved decisive in a contest that remained competitive until the closing stages.
The victory will provide Sunderland with encouragement, while the performances of the two Congolese players offer a further reminder of their ability to influence matches at crucial moments.
For Torreense, the defeat will be a frustrating outcome after holding the advantage for much of the contest before conceding twice in the final stages.
