Leeds United and Burnley promoted to Premier League as Sheffield United's dream ends

On a rain-slicked Monday evening in April, English football witnessed one of its most electric days in recent memory. Leeds United and Burnley punched their tickets to the Premier League with stunning, synchronized victories — Leeds United thrashing Stoke City 6-0 at Elland Road, while Burnley held off a desperate Sheffield United 2-1 at Turf Moor. The result? Both clubs finished the 2024-25 EFL Championship season with 94 points, making it mathematically impossible for third-place Sheffield United to catch them. For Leeds United, it was a redemption arc two years in the making. For Burnley, it was a swift return after just one season away. And for Sheffield United? A crushing end to automatic promotion hopes — now reduced to the nerve-wracking lottery of the playoffs.

Leeds United’s Dominance at Elland Road

The atmosphere at Elland Road was pure pandemonium. The 37,608 fans packed into the stadium didn’t just watch — they roared. And they were rewarded with a performance for the ages. Joel Piroe, the 25-year-old Welsh striker, didn’t just score a hat trick — he destroyed Stoke City in the first 20 minutes. His fourth goal before halftime sent the crowd into a frenzy. By the final whistle, the scoreline read 6-0, a statement that echoed far beyond Yorkshire. Ethan Ampadu, the 24-year-old Welsh captain, stood in the center circle afterward, arms raised, tears mixing with rain. "Very proud," he said. "A lot of positives. The celebrations are amazing. We’ve worked all year for this." But he wasn’t done. "Not to put a dampener on it, we’ve still got another target we want to achieve," he added, hinting at the Championship title still up for grabs.

Burnley’s Kompany Masterclass

While Leeds tore apart their opponent, Burnley faced a far tougher test. Sheffield United, still clinging to hopes of automatic promotion, came out swinging. But Burnley had a man who knew how to win under pressure: Vincent Kompany. The former Manchester City captain, now 38, had returned to his boyhood club after a storied career abroad. His leadership, both on and off the pitch, had turned Burnley into a machine. And on this night, Josh Brownhill, the 29-year-old midfielder, was his weapon. Brownhill scored both goals in the first half — a thunderous strike from outside the box, then a clinical finish after a slick one-two. The second half was tense, with Sheffield United pushing forward, but Burnley held firm. When the final whistle blew, players collapsed to the turf. Fans streamed onto the pitch. It was pure, unfiltered joy.

Sheffield United’s Heartbreak

For Sheffield United, it was a cruel twist. They’d been relegated alongside Leeds United in 2023-24. They’d fought their way back into the promotion race. And then, in April, everything unraveled. Three straight losses — including this one — shattered their momentum. Chris Wilder, their 57-year-old manager, stood motionless on the touchline as the final seconds ticked away. He’d led them to the Premier League in 2019, then back down in 2021, and now, back up again — only to fall short. "We gave everything," he said afterward, voice hoarse. "But sometimes, the football gods don’t smile on you." Now, they’ll join Sunderland and two other clubs in the playoffs, where one team will snatch the final spot in the Premier League. It’s a chance — but a far less certain one.

What Comes Next? The Title Race and the Big Picture

With promotion secured, the Championship title now becomes the only remaining prize. Leeds United and Burnley are level on points, but Leeds United hold the advantage in goal difference. Their final two fixtures: home against Bristol City, then away at Plymouth Argyle. Burnley face Queens Park Rangers on the road, then host Millwall at Turf Moor. A draw for either side could hand the title to the other. The drama isn’t over — it’s just moved to a different stage.

Why This Matters Beyond the Pitch

Promotion to the Premier League isn’t just about pride. It’s about £150 million in broadcast revenue, global exposure, and the ability to attract world-class talent. For Leeds United, it’s the end of a two-year exile after a heartbreaking playoff final loss to Southampton last May. For Burnley, it’s a return after just one season — a testament to their stability under Kompany. And for the fans? It’s more than football. It’s identity. It’s hope. It’s the sound of a stadium roaring again after years of silence.

What’s the Timeline?

- April 21, 2025: Leeds and Burnley promoted after Matchday 45.
- April 26, 2025: Final Championship matches — Leeds vs. Bristol City; Burnley at QPR.
- April 29, 2025: Final Championship matches — Leeds at Plymouth; Burnley vs. Millwall.
- May 17, 2025: Championship playoff semifinals.
- May 24, 2025: Championship playoff final at Wembley.
- August 16, 2025: Premier League season begins.
- May 24, 2026: Premier League season ends.