Sunderland Earn Premier League Promotion with Last-Gasp Playoff Triumph

Sunderland Secure Premier League Promotion with Dramatic Playoff Victory

Sunderland have clinched a return to the Premier League after a thrilling 2–1 comeback win over Sheffield United in the 2025 EFL Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley Stadium. The victory marks the Black Cats' first top-flight appearance since their relegation in the 2016–17 season. 

In front of a crowd of 82,718, Sheffield United took the lead in the 25th minute through Tyrese Campbell. However, Sunderland responded in the second half, with Eliezer Mayenda equalising in the 76th minute. The decisive moment came in the fifth minute of stoppage time when 19-year-old academy graduate Tom Watson netted the winner, securing Sunderland's promotion in his final appearance before a summer move to Brighton & Hove Albion.  

The match also featured a historic moment as referee Chris Kavanagh became the first official in a Championship final to explain a VAR decision to the crowd via the stadium's PA system. This occurred after a potential second goal for Sheffield United was disallowed due to an offside infringement.  

Sunderland's promotion is estimated to be worth up to £220 million in additional revenue, underscoring the financial significance of the Championship play-off final, often dubbed the "richest game in football."  

Joining Sunderland in the Premier League for the 2025–26 season are Leeds United and Burnley, who secured automatic promotion. Meanwhile, Sheffield United will remain in the Championship, extending their winless streak at Wembley to seven matches, dating back to 1925.  

The match commenced at 15:01 BST, a minute later than scheduled, as part of the "Every Minute Matters" campaign—a collaboration between the EFL and the British Heart Foundation aimed at promoting CPR awareness among football fans.  

This victory completes a remarkable resurgence for Sunderland, who had previously dropped to League One following their Premier League relegation. Under the guidance of manager Régis Le Bris, the team has now achieved two promotions in three seasons, culminating in their return to England's top tier.