Southampton Promoted to Premier League After Championship Playoff Victory Over Leeds

Southampton Secures Premier League Promotion with Victory over Leeds United

Southampton clinched promotion back to the Premier League by defeating Leeds United in the Championship play-off final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The decisive goal came in the 24th minute when Adam Armstrong scored after a precise through ball from Will Smallbone.

Despite Leeds’ recent dominant performance against Norwich City, they struggled to find their rhythm, with their best chance hitting the crossbar courtesy of Daniel James. Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy was left helpless by the dipping effort.

Although Leeds applied pressure during nine minutes of stoppage time in the second half, they couldn’t find an equalizer, ensuring their return to the Championship for at least another season.

For Southampton, the victory marks a swift return to the Premier League after their relegation in the 2022/23 season. Russell Martin’s team finished fourth in the Championship after 46 games, three points behind Leeds. They overcame West Bromwich Albion in the play-off semi-finals with a goalless away draw followed by a 3-1 victory at St Mary’s.