Sunderland’s play-off clash with Coventry City goes to extra-time – rules explained
Sunderland vs Coventry City Play-Off Semi-Final Heads to Extra-Time at the Stadium of Light
Sunderland’s Championship play-off semi-final against Coventry City has entered extra-time after the two sides finished level on aggregate over two legs.
The Black Cats came into the second leg at the Stadium of Light with a 2-1 advantage from their first-leg victory at the CBS Arena, courtesy of goals from Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda.
However, Coventry struck back in the 76th minute of the return fixture when Ephron Mason-Clark converted a cross from the right, making it 2-2 on aggregate and forcing the tie into extra-time.
How Extra-Time Works in the Play-Offs
The outcome of the semi-final is based on the combined score over both legs, with away goals not counting as a tiebreaker.
With the aggregate score tied, the game moved into extra-time and could potentially be decided by penalties if needed.
Should Sunderland advance, they will head to Wembley for a one-off final — where, again, extra-time and spot-kicks may be required to determine a winner.
Team News: Le Bris Sticks with First-Leg Line-Up
Ahead of kick-off, Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris opted to keep faith in the same starting XI that earned the 2-1 win in the first leg.
Strikers Isidor and Mayenda retained their spots, while young midfielder Chris Rigg started on the bench.
Stay tuned to our live blog for minute-by-minute coverage of this dramatic semi-final showdown.
