EFL announces late change to Sunderland v Sheffield United kick-off time
Sunderland take on Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final this weekend, but there has been a slight change to the scheduled kick-off time.
The Black Cats reached the final after a last-minute victory over Coventry City, and will be hoping to achieve promotion.
Sunderland have not been in the Premier League since 2017, but they will face a huge test against Sheffield United, who finished 14 points above them this season.
The two sides will meet at Wembley, but they will have a surprise in store on the day as the game will kick off at an unusual time.
Sunderland v Sheffield United to kick off one minute later
Sunderland ended the Championship season poorly, but will hope that their victory over Coventry can inspire them to win against the Blades.
When the two sides will meet at Wembley on 24 May, they will kick off at 3.01pm, one minute later than previously scheduled.
The EFL has released a statement explaining why, with the decision made to support the British Heart Foundation.
Their campaign, Every Minute Matters, is aiming to raise awareness about the importance of CPR, which is decisive in saving lives all over the world.
| Team | Position | Goal Difference | Points |
| Sheffield United | 3 | 27 | 90 |
| Sunderland | 4 | 14 | 76 |
“The Sky Bet Play-Offs are a special moment in the football calendar and tens of thousands of supporters will be at Wembley Stadium across the weekend with millions more tuning in from home,” EFL Chief Trevor Birch stated.
“By kicking off all three Play-Off Finals one minute later, Every Minute Matters continues to harness the power and visibility of football to encourage even more people to learn CPR, which could ultimately help to save even more lives.”
Sunderland could determine future with play-off victory
Victory for Sunderland would be monumental for several reasons, as returning to the Premier League would be hugely significant.
Several players have been linked with moves away, and defeat in the final would almost certainly confirm that key stars such as Jobe Bellingham depart this summer.
Promotion would allow Sunderland to take their project to the next level with better recruitment and a financial boost, but defeat could make next season very difficult.
Sheffield United are the favourites for the clash, but Sunderland will be eager to cause an upset to return after a long absence from the top flight.