Sunderland Aims for Premier League in Championship Play-offs

Sunderland, England – The 2025 Sky Bet EFL play-offs are set to begin, providing Sunderland with a significant opportunity to achieve promotion to the Premier League this month. The Black Cats, who finished fourth in the Championship, hope to end the longest period outside the top flight in the club’s history.

In the semi-finals, Sunderland will face Coventry City, a formidable opponent that previously defeated them 3-0 in March. The first leg of their semi-final matchup is scheduled for Friday, May 9, at the CBS Arena, while the second leg will take place at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday, May 12.

The EFL play-off format consists of two-legged semi-finals, with the winners advancing to the final at Wembley Stadium on May 24. Teams finishing in third to sixth place compete for the final promotion spot, creating a thrilling knockout tournament. The aggregate score over both legs determines the winner, with no away goals rule applied.

Tickets for Sunderland’s home semi-final leg have been available for purchase since April 29. Supporters can buy tickets online or visit the Stadium of Light ticket office, which operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Prices range from £14 for under-18s to £32 for adults, making it accessible for fans eager to support their team.

As for those who can’t attend the matches, they can watch live coverage on Sky Sports Football and Sky Sports Main Event. Streaming service NOW TV is also available, offering day memberships for viewers who wish to tune in.

The stakes are high for Sunderland, and if they succeed in the semi-finals, they would advance to face either Bristol City or Sheffield United in the play-off final, with a spot in the Premier League on the line. The excitement is palpable as the play-offs approach, showcasing the competitive nature of English football.