Substitute Tom Watson delivered a dramatic stoppage-time strike as Sunderland overturned Sheffield United with a 2-1 victory in the EFL Championship play-off final at London’s Wembley Stadium. His winning goal five minutes into injury time came after Kieffer Moore’s loose pass, capping a thrilling comeback.
The match started in Sheffield United’s favor, with Tyrese Campbell—son of late striker Kevin Campbell—heading the Blades into an early lead. But Sunderland, absent from the Premier League since 2017, rallied with Spanish forward Eliezer Mayenda equalizing in the 76th minute, just three minutes after manager Régis Le Bris introduced Watson off the bench.
Defender Luke O’Nien briefly required oxygen treatment after a shoulder injury but returned to celebrate alongside teammates, jersey peeled off in jubilation, highlighting the squad’s resilience. Goalkeeper Anthony Patterson described the moment as ‘incredible’ and is preparing to embrace top-flight football once more.
Beyond the sporting glory, Sunderland stands to gain an estimated 200 million pounds in matchday, broadcast, and commercial revenue—a staggering economic uplift that showcases how one game can reshape a club’s future. Their promotion joins Leeds United and Burnley as the Championship’s recent graduates to football’s most lucrative stage.
For Sheffield United, postponed dreams continue after their relegation last season. Yet the EFL final, known as the world’s richest single match, remains a testament to football’s ability to deliver heartbreak and triumph in equal measure.
Reference(s):
Watson sends Sunderland into Premier League with stoppage-time winner
cgtn.com
