Introduced for the 2014-15 season, the U-23 International Cup pits the best 12 academies in England against what is regarded as the best 12 in Europe. The competition was designed to give youngsters greater experience and give them the chance to face some of the best academy sides throughout Europe. Manchester City were the first winners of the competition, followed by Villarreal. Once again there will be a new name on the trophy as Sunderland take on Porto.
U23 Premier League International Cup Final Preview: Sunderland vs FC Porto B
Sunderland’s name appearing in the final may come as a surprise to many due to their first team’s poor form in the Premier League this season. However, the academy side has had an excellent season, beating some of Europe’s finest on the way to the final itself as well as holding their own in their own league, Premier League 2 Division 1.
The Black Cats are looking to win their first-ever European trophy. They will be backed by a large crowd at the Stadium of Light. A crowd who will be hoping there is something to cheer after a dismal season watching the first team. Sunderland had a tough route to the final, but performed above expectations, scoring in every game and conceding in just two.
Porto are looking to go one better than they did two years ago when beaten by Manchester City in the final. Porto have certainly been a force in this competition, as they have never failed to reach at least the semi-finals. Only Liverpool have managed to score against Porto so far, with the Portuguese side making light work of others they have faced. Porto have been on a mission and Sunderland will have to be at their very best.
Road to the final
Group stages
Sunderland 2-1 Benfica
Sunderland 2-0 PSV Eindhoven
Derby County 2-2 Sunderland
Liverpool 1-1 Porto
Leicester City 0-2 Porto
Porto 3-0 Wolfsburg
Both sides progressed by topping their respective groups. A late winner gave Sunderland the points in their opening game. This was followed by an impressive display as they brushed aside Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven. Qualification was secured after a hard-earned draw at Derby. Although they were initially two goals down, the Black Cats rallied to secure a draw.
Porto faced their toughest challenge first. They opened the scoring, but once Liverpool equalised there only looked like being one winner. However, Porto held on. Leicester City were next and like Wolfsburg in the final game, were brushed aside with relative ease.
Quarter-Finals
Sunderland 2-0 Athletic Club
Manchester United 0-2 Porto
An excellent performance by Sunderland secured their place in the semi-finals as they overcame Athletic Club. The Spanish side began the better but Sunderland grew into the game and scored their first on 25 minutes. The second came just after half-time and was enough for the win. Porto travelled to Manchester to face United. Two goals in four second-half minutes stunned the home side and it meant that once again Porto would be in the semi-finals.
Semi-Finals
Norwich City 0-1 Sunderland
Swansea City 0-1 Porto
Sunderland, and especially their goalkeeper Max Stryjek, produced heroic performances to book their place in the final. The Black Cats took the lead early on and even though they had further chances, they have their keeper to thank for keeping Norwich at bay. Porto faced Swansea City at the Liberty Stadium and did just enough to get through. A goal mid-way through the second half giving them a narrow victory.
Team news
Sunderland academy boss Elliot Dickman should have a full squad to chose from. Although this could have been very different. Sunderland manager David Moyes stated that his first team comes first. Even though they are relegated and have nothing but pride to play for, Moyes hinted he may take some of the youngsters to Arsenal the day before the final with the intention of playing them. Thankfully for the players and Elliot Dickman, Moyes resisted the temptation.
FC Porto B coach António Folha has a full-strength side to choose from. Folia has stated that his team, although a little anxious, are optimistic and prepared to play well and win.
The last word
Porto, who have experience and a slightly better record going into this final, are seen as favourites. Porto also play in a more competitive league having played in the Portuguese Second Division for several years now. Coach Folha has them well organised and will be confident he can finally put their name on this trophy. “We approach this competition as any FC Porto team would do. No matter what competition this club plays for, the goal is to win and that’s the spirit we have. If we are able to play our game, there’s little room for others to do what they know.”
However, Sunderland will be backed by their home fans, they have Premier League experience in their squad and have faced and beaten top European teams already in this competition. The Black Cats will not be intimidated by facing Porto and in the likes of striker Joel Asoro and goalkeeper Max Stryjek, they have players at both ends of the pitch that can make a difference.
Where: Stadium of Light, Sunderland
When: Wednesday 17 May
Kick-off: 7PM
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