sports
February 28, 2026
‘We missed him’: Xhaka adds steel as Sunderland share point at Bournemouth
For those Sunderland fans making the 700-mile round trip from Wearside, some beginning their journey at midnight, they arrived to the welcome sight of Granit Xhaka’s first start since 17 January. Could the captain’s return inspire Sunderland from the slump that began in mid-December? On the south coast, a losing run came to its end. Régis Le Bris’s team claimed the point their determined performance deserved.
TL;DR
- Granit Xhaka made his first start for Sunderland since January 17th, bolstering the team's midfield.
- Sunderland took the lead through Eliezer Mayenda, but Bournemouth equalized in the second half via Evanilson.
- The match featured several contentious refereeing decisions, including a waved-away penalty claim for Sunderland and a red card escape for Bournemouth's Tyler Adams.
- Goalkeeper Robin Roefs made crucial saves for Sunderland but also had moments of error.
- Despite late pressure and added time, neither team could find a winner, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
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