Sunderland beat West Ham 3-0 in return

Sunderland secure a 3-0 win at the Stadium of Light, with Mayenda, Ballard and Isidor scoring in their first Premier League match back.

Sunderland beat West Ham 3-0 on Premier League return

Sunderland started with pace and purpose, lining up with seven summer arrivals. Habib Diarra, the club's record signing, linked quickly with Eliezer Mayenda to threaten the West Ham defense. Diarra's burst through midfield opened space for Mayenda, whose header put Sunderland ahead after Omar Alderete supplied the cross. Robin Roefs, the club’s new Netherlands Under-21 goalkeeper, looked composed behind a rebuilt back line that also included Nordi Mukiele in the mix and a lively, high-pressing approach. Dan Ballard then added a second with a strong header from a deep Adingra cross as West Ham struggled to clear. The crowd responded with rising volume as Sunderland established control early.

West Ham offered glimpses of resistance, but the visitors never found their rhythm. The decision to field new faces alongside the existing core points to a broader rebuilding strategy under Graham Potter, a process that will require time and continuity. Sunderland’s blend of youth and experience signals a willingness to back up ambition with a tangible plan on the pitch. The performance suggests the team could translate transfer window activity into sustained momentum, even as the league calendar grows demanding.

Highlights

The season is young, but this result could redefine early mood around both clubs.