Sunderland FC have secured their return to the Premier League after a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Sheffield United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

The Black Cats, who have been absent from England's top flight since their relegation in 2017, found themselves trailing early in the match when Tyrese Campbell put Sheffield United ahead following an impressive counter-attack.

Chris Wilder's Sheffield United dominated the opening exchanges, imposing themselves on the game and taking a deserved lead through Campbell's clinical finish.

However, Sunderland emerged transformed after the break, taking control of the contest with renewed determination. Eliezer Mayenda, who delivered an outstanding performance throughout, levelled the score with a superb strike to give the Black Cats hope.

The dramatic climax came in added time when Tom Watson, reportedly set to leave the club, scored what proved to be the winning goal, sending Sunderland supporters into rapturous celebration.

This victory means Sunderland will join Leeds United and Burnley as the three teams promoted to the Premier League for the 2025/26 season, ending their six-year absence from England's elite division.

The triumph at Wembley represents a significant achievement for Sunderland, who have navigated a challenging path through the Championship playoffs, including a notable victory over Coventry City in the semi-finals.

For Sheffield United, the defeat marks a bitter end to their campaign as they miss out on an immediate return to the Premier League following their relegation last season.

Sunderland fans will now look forward to seeing their team compete against England's elite clubs once again when the new Premier League season kicks off later this year.