Sunderland sealed their place in next season's Europa League with a 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light. Trai Hume's first-half goal and a Malo Gusto own goal proved enough for the hosts, despite Cole Palmer pulling one back for the visitors.
Match Summary
Hume opened the scoring in the 25th minute, slotting home from close range after Omar Alderete nod the ball down in the box.
The Black Cats doubled their lead five minutes after the restart when Enzo Le Fée's cross was sliced towards goal by Brian Brobbey, and Gusto turned the ball into his own net.
Chelsea pulled one back through Palmer in the 56th minute, firing low into the bottom corner. However, the game turned on its head six minutes later when Wesley Fofana received a second yellow card for a foul on substitute Wilson Isidor, reducing the Blues to ten men.
Sunderland comfortably managed the remainder of the game, including 10 additional minutes of stoppage time, to secure their spot in Europe.
European Places Confirmed
The victory, combined with results elsewhere, confirmed Sunderland's place in European competition next season.
This marks the club's first European appearance in 53 years, capping off a remarkable top-flight return. Sunderland earned promotion exactly one year ago to the day after beating Sheffield United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley.
Chelsea started the day in eighth position but defeat sees them finish one point outside of the European places in 10th.
Team News
Luke O'Nien replaced Omar Alderete in the Sunderland line-up from last weekend's win over Everton.
Chelsea made three changes from their victory over Tottenham as Gusto, Levi Colwill and João Pedro all started.