WEMBLEY (CONVERSEER) – Sunderland have sealed a sensational return to the Premier League after defeating Sheffield United 2-1 in the Championship play-off final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, thanks to a last-minute winner from teenager Tom Watson.
The Black Cats, who last played in the English top-flight in 2017, produced a stirring second-half comeback to overturn a one-goal deficit in front of a packed Wembley crowd. The win marks the culmination of a remarkable campaign, with manager Tony Mowbray’s young side defying expectations to earn promotion alongside Leeds United and Burnley.
Sheffield United started brightly and nearly went ahead inside two minutes when Kieffer Moore’s powerful header was denied by an outstanding reflex save from Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson. The Blades continued to dominate early proceedings, capitalising on Sunderland’s sluggish start and forcing the North East side onto the back foot.
Sunderland suffered a further blow when captain Luke O’Nien was forced off midway through the first half after dislocating his shoulder during an aerial challenge. The setback seemed to unsettle the Black Cats further, and Sheffield United took advantage just before the break.
READ ALSO: Exclusive: Victor Osimhen can Transform Chelsea into Champions, says Nigeria National Coach
A swift counter-attack saw Gustavo Hamer release Campbell, who expertly controlled the ball before lifting it over Patterson to give the Blades a deserved lead. Harrison Burrows thought he had doubled the advantage minutes later with a well-taken half-volley, but the goal was disallowed by VAR after Vinicius Souza was adjudged offside and obstructing the goalkeeper’s view.
The second half witnessed a transformed Sunderland side. They pressed with greater urgency and began to dominate possession, though they initially lacked the creativity to break down a resolute Sheffield defence. However, their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Patrick Roberts picked out Mayenda with a pinpoint through ball. The striker took the pass in stride and fired past Cooper to level the score.
With the match seemingly headed for extra time, substitute Watson – introduced in the 72nd minute – produced a moment of brilliance in stoppage time. Pouncing on a careless giveaway from Moore in midfield, the 19-year-old academy graduate surged forward and unleashed a low shot into the bottom corner, sparking jubilant scenes among the Sunderland faithful.
It was a poetic finale for Watson, whose goal not only secured Premier League football for his boyhood club but also came in what is expected to be his final appearance for Sheffield United, with a summer move to Brighton reportedly imminent.
The result leaves Sheffield United heartbroken and ruing missed opportunities, particularly Moore’s costly error in the dying moments. For Sunderland, however, the victory represents a triumphant return to the elite tier of English football after eight years of rebuilding and resurgence.
The Premier League now awaits the Black Cats, whose youthful squad and fearless football have captured the imagination of fans throughout the season.