Sunderland secured their place in the Championship playoff final with a dramatic last-minute victory over Coventry City, setting up a showdown with Sheffield United at Wembley on May 24.

Dan Ballard emerged as the hero for the Black Cats, heading home the decisive goal in the 122nd minute of extra time. His winner, which came with virtually the last touch of the match, sent the Stadium of Light into raptures as Sunderland advanced on aggregate despite drawing level on the night.

The Wearside club had carried a 2-1 advantage from the first leg at Coventry, but saw that lead canceled out when Ephron Mason-Clark side-footed home in the second half of the return fixture, forcing the semi-final into extra time.

With penalties looming and tension mounting inside the stadium, Ballard rose highest from a corner to power home the decisive goal that sparked scenes of jubilation among the home supporters.

Sunderland's opponents in the final, Sheffield United, made Championship playoff history by thrashing Bristol City 6-0 on aggregate in the other semi-final tie.

The final at Wembley Stadium on May 24 will determine which team secures promotion to the Premier League for the 2025/26 season, with both clubs now just one win away from returning to English football's top flight.

For Sunderland, this represents a significant opportunity to return to the Premier League after several years in the lower divisions, while Sheffield United will be looking to bounce straight back following their relegation last season.