Sunderland secured a remarkable seventh-place finish in the Premier League and qualification for the Europa League after a fully merited 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light. Régis Le Bris's side, tipped for relegation at the start of the season, produced a performance emblematic of their campaign, outplaying a Chelsea side whose own European hopes were dashed.
Trai Hume opened the scoring in the 25th minute, volleying home after Luke O'Nien flicked on a long ball from Robin Roefs. Chelsea struggled to cope with Sunderland's intensity and invention, with Enzo Le Fée and Granit Xhaka dominating midfield. An own goal from Malo Gusto doubled Sunderland's lead before Cole Palmer pulled one back for the visitors.
Wesley Fofana was sent off in the 62nd minute for a second yellow card, Chelsea's 11th red card of a chaotic campaign. Interim manager Calum McFarlane said: 'We're disappointed. We're gutted.' Xabi Alonso, Chelsea's incoming manager, faces a significant challenge.
Le Bris, who signed 14 players last summer, said: 'I'm proud. We've created something special. It's hard to believe, but it shows everything is possible.' Sunderland's European campaign will be their first since 1973-74.
