Football’s most valuable fixture hits Wembley this weekend as Sunderland clash with Sheffield United in the 2025 EFL Championship Play-Off Final. The match kicks off on Saturday, May 24, at 3:01 PM BST (9:01 PM Bangkok time) and will determine who secures the final Premier League promotion spot — along with an estimated £220 million in financial rewards.
According to TalkSport, the match will air live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.
The richest game in football
Sunderland, led by manager Régis Le Bris, are seeking a return to the Premier League for the first time since 2017. Their path to Wembley was sealed in dramatic fashion — a 3–2 aggregate win over Coventry City, capped by a last-minute header from Dan Ballard.
“We’ve been through relegation, rebuilds, and heartbreak,” said a lifelong Sunderland fan living in Bangkok. “This is our moment.”
Sheffield United, coached by Chris Wilder, arrive at Wembley following a dominant 6–0 aggregate win over Bristol City. After last year’s relegation, the Blades are aiming to bounce back immediately.
Football fans in the UK are going all out in support of the teams
Players to watch
Sunderland’s squad features standout performers like Eliezer Mayenda, who has 7 goals and 2 assists this season, and Jobe Bellingham, a rising midfield talent. Dan Ballard, the semi-final hero, will again be vital in defense.
Sheffield United’s key men include Gustavo Hamer, known for his creativity, and Callum O’Hare, who scored in both legs of the semi-final.
Where to watch in Bangkok
Football fans in Thailand won’t have to miss a second of the action. Several top Bangkok venues will be showing the game live:
- The Clubhouse Bar & Grill (Sukhumvit Soi 23): A lively venue known for showing all major football fixtures.
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The Sportsman (Sukhumvit Soi 13): One of Bangkok’s best-equipped sports bars with large screens and stadium-style seating.
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O’Malley’s Irish Pub (Silom): Popular among expats, with match commentary and good food.
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Chequers Pub (Sukhumvit Soi 4): A cozy British pub with football on projector screens and match-day specials.
Reservations are recommended, especially for groups.
Why it matters
The Championship Play-Off Final is more than just a football game — it’s a career-defining moment for players, a financial windfall for clubs, and a day of passion and pride for fans.
For Sunderland, it’s about ending an eight-year exile from the top flight. For Sheffield United, it’s the chance to make an immediate return and rebuild.
For fans in Bangkok and beyond, it’s 90 minutes that could change everything.
Image caption suggestion:
Fans of Sunderland and Sheffield United gear up for a make-or-break showdown at Wembley — streamed live around the world.
