May 26, (THEWILL)- Joe Aribo’s Southampton claimed an instant return to the English Premier League after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Leeds United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. The Saints’ promotion was sealed courtesy of Adam Armstrong’s first-half strike, ensuring their top-flight status for the 2024/2025 season.
Armstrong’s clinical finish proved the difference on a tense afternoon in London, where Leeds struggled to breach Southampton’s resolute defensive lines. Substitute Daniel James came closest for the Yorkshire club, his late effort cannoning off the crossbar as Southampton held firm to stake their EPL comeback.
Southampton’s triumph sees them rejoin the EPL ranks alongside fellow promoted sides Leicester City and Ipswich Town. While Leicester achieved an immediate top-flight return following last season’s relegation, Ipswich Town’s promotion ends a 22-year exile from England’s elite division.
The promotion crowns an impressive campaign for Southampton under the guidance of manager Russell Martin. The Saints’ grit and determination throughout the gruelling Championship season ultimately paved the way for their EPL renaissance, setting the stage for an enthralling return to the big time.
As the Southampton faithful revel in the club’s achievement, attention will now turn to strengthening the squad and preparing for the rigours of the EPL competition and the challenges that await in England’s most prestigious football competition.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
