The yobs, shrouded in the darkness of the St James' Metro station car park, launched bottles at the London-bound bus, smashing a window.
Benfica fan Valta Lorento, 25, from Crawley, said the mindless violence marred what had otherwise been a nice visit to the North East.
"We didn't even see the people who did this before the attack, let alone provoke them," he said. "All we came to do was watch the game then make our long way home.
Other fans aboard the coach suggested those responsible may have been trying to hit a Benfica flag they had pinned to a window, but were keen to stress they held no ill will against Newcastle United or the majority of Magpies supporters – many of whom were appalled by the attack when they stopped to speak to the passengers as they waited in the cold.
With his Benfica scarf wrapped around his face to protect against the North East night air, Joseph Abrino said: "I don't think what they did should be associated with the club because it did so well and made us feel so welcome. It's a shame the evening ended this way, but it won't put me off coming back to the city."
A spokesman for Northumbria Police said they were aware of the attack, which happened around 10.40pm, though no arrests had been made.
The spokesman also said that decisions on whether to escort away coaches are made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the rivalry between fans.
Turnstiles for Sunderland fans will open at 10am, with Black Cats supporters encouraged to use the free coaches which will leave the Stadium of Light for St James' Park at 9.30am.
After the game Sunderland fans will be asked to wait in the stands for a time while police ensure a safe path back to the coaches, and Metro and train stations.
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