Sunderland have secured participation in European football for the first time since 1973 after a 2-1 home win over Chelsea left the Blues out of European competition.

The Premier League-promoted side started strongly in the decider, building constant pressure on Chelsea, who failed to control the game in the first half.

The first goal came in the first minute. 25th, when Trai Hume took advantage of a rebound and scored with a quick shot inside the box.

Chelsea tried to respond through Cole Palmer and Enzo, but to no avail in the first half.

Early in the second half, Brian Brobbey was stopped by goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, but then Sunderland luckily doubled their lead after a Malo Gusto own goal.

Chelsea got back into the game when Cole Palmer scored. after a clean sheet ended a goalless run, narrowing the scoreline.

However, the situation was complicated for the Londoners when Wesley Fofana was sent off for a foul on Wilson Isidor.

Sunderland carefully managed the rest of the game, securing a historic victory that gives them 7th place in the table and qualification for the Europa League.

For Chelsea, the season ended with great disappointment, as they finish in 10th place and without participation in European competitions./Express

Source: prizrenpost