Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has admitted that mistakes cost his team as they suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Sunderland in the Championship playoff semi-final.

Lampard's men entered Tuesday's second leg trailing 2-1 from the first encounter. They managed to level the tie when Ephron Mason-Clark converted a deep cross in the second half, making it 2-2 on aggregate at the Stadium of Light.

However, with penalties looming in the 122nd minute of extra time, Sunderland's Dan Ballard rose highest to head in the decisive goal that secured his team's place at Wembley.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Lampard insisted his team was superior over both legs despite the result.

"If anyone watched the two games, we dominated at home, we made a mistake and they scored," Lampard said. "I think we dominated huge periods of this game. They had to concede to us because of the way we played and with the way the lads controlled the game, they didn't deserve it."

The former Chelsea manager was gracious in defeat but maintained his belief that Coventry were the better side throughout the tie.

"We're not bitter, and congratulations to Sunderland but we were the better team over the two football matches and that's why they'll be so happy going to Wembley," he added.

Sunderland will now face Sheffield United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley, with the winner securing promotion to the Premier League for the 2025/26 season.