**Benfica Triumphs in Milan; Sunderland Celebrates Historic Europa League Win**
In the opening round of the Europa League league phase on Wednesday, Benfica secured a convincing 2-0 victory over AC Milan at the San Siro, while Sunderland celebrated a historic night with their first-ever Europa League win against AZ Alkmaar.
Benfica's performance was marked by an early goal from Dodi Lukebakio, who found the net in the 16th minute. Positioned just outside the box, Lukebakio took advantage of the space afforded to him and fired a low shot into the far corner of the goal, giving the Portuguese side a crucial lead. The visitors continued to dominate the match, and their efforts paid off again eight minutes into the second half when Jakub Kaminski scored with a superb volley from 15 yards, doubling Benfica's advantage. The team showcased a strong performance throughout the match, demonstrating their quality and tactical discipline.
Meanwhile, Sunderland made history at the Stadium of Light by securing their first Europa League goal and win. Enzo Le Fee was the hero for the home side, converting a penalty in the 66th minute after being fouled by Weslley Patati while attempting a shot. Sunderland managed to hold on to their lead despite facing pressure from AZ Alkmaar, who squandered several opportunities to equalize. This victory marks a significant milestone for Sunderland, highlighting their successful debut in European competition.
In other matches, Olympique Lyonnais also enjoyed success, defeating Anderlecht 2-1 in Brussels. Lyon took control of the game with first-half goals from Noah Nartey and Keito Nakamura. Although Mihajlo Cvetkovic pulled one back for Anderlecht midway through the second half, Lyon maintained their composure and secured the win.
Bayer Leverkusen recorded a routine 2-0 victory over Slovenian side Celje, with an own goal from Svit Seslar and a strike from Facundo Medina sealing the win for the home team. Leverkusen capitalized on an early mistake from Seslar, who inadvertently deflected a cross into his own net, setting the tone for the match.
In a tightly contested encounter, Omonia Nicosia claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Celta Vigo, thanks to a late goal from Jure Balkovec. The winning goal came in the 88th minute when Balkovec unleashed a powerful 25-yard shot that beat Celta's goalkeeper Ionut Radu at his near post.
Olympiacos Piraeus also came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory against Polish side Jagiellonia. Kajetan Szmyt had initially put Jagiellonia ahead, but goals from Armando Gonzalez and Roman Yaremchuk saw Olympiacos turn the match around and claim all three points.
In other matches, Hapoel Beer Sheva and Dinamo Zagreb played to a goalless draw in Bucharest, while Stade Rennais faced Sturm Graz in Austria, with that match also ending without goals.
As the Europa League campaign continues, teams will be looking to build on their performances and secure vital points in the coming weeks. The opening round has set the stage for an exciting tournament, with clubs eager to advance and make their mark in European football.