EFL Championship 2024/25: Leeds United Triumph, Relegation Drama, and Playoff Heroes
The EFL Championship 2024/25 season delivered yet another thrilling chapter in the history of English football. Fans experienced last-minute goals, gripping relegation showdowns, and unexpected triumphs. Leeds United returned to the summit, while teams across the table battled fiercely for promotion and survival.
Leeds United: Champions in Dramatic Fashion
Leeds United secured the Championship title in extraordinary style. Their 2-1 away victory over Plymouth Argyle included a dramatic injury-time winner from Manor Solomon. That decisive goal sealed Leeds’s status as champions, holding off Burnley by goal difference and triggering wild celebrations among their loyal supporters. Leeds’s relentless pursuit of success and their ability to perform under pressure defined their impressive campaign.
For an in-depth match report and post-game reactions, read the BBC Sport coverage of Leeds’s triumph and Plymouth's heartbreak.
Burnley’s Heartbreak and Historic Highs
Burnley pushed Leeds all the way to the final whistle. Their victory over Millwall meant they also reached a remarkable 100 points, a tally reached by only a few teams in EFL Championship history. Yet, it wasn’t enough to claim the top spot. Burnley manager Scott Parker praised his squad’s resilience and acknowledged the excellence of their title rivals.
The 2024/25 campaign marked the first time two teams have reached triple digits in a single Championship season. Burnley’s achievement stands as a testament to the league’s level of competition and excitement.
Playoff Pursuits: Coventry and Bristol City Shine
This season’s playoff race kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. Coventry City, under the guidance of Frank Lampard, completed a remarkable turnaround. From 17th place in November to securing a playoff spot, Coventry’s resilience and belief earned widespread praise. Lampard’s arrival injected new energy and ambition into the squad, leading to eight wins in nine matches during their push for promotion.
For more on Coventry City’s story and Lampard’s impact, read ESPN’s analysis of the promotion battle and final day drama.
Bristol City also clinched their place in the playoffs, cementing a memorable year. Both teams now eye Premier League football as they prepare for high-stakes semi-finals.
Relegation Decisions: Agony for Luton and Plymouth
Not all teams experienced joy as the final whistle sounded on the last day. Luton Town faced a second consecutive relegation, dropping down to League One after a dramatic 5-3 defeat at West Brom. Their fans endured a rollercoaster of emotions, holding on to hope until the very end, but the result confirmed their fate.
Plymouth Argyle’s battle was equally intense. Despite a spirited effort against Leeds, their relegation was sealed, marking a tough end to the campaign.
For details on how the relegation battle unfolded and managers’ reactions, explore The Guardian’s roundup of the Championship’s last day.
EFL Championship 2024/25 Final Table Highlights
- 1st: Leeds United – 100 points, +65 GD
- 2nd: Burnley – 100 points, +53 GD
- Playoff qualifiers: Sheffield United, Sunderland, Coventry City, Bristol City
- Relegated: Luton Town, Plymouth Argyle, Cardiff City
The EFL Championship continues to deliver unmatched drama, fiercely contested matches, and opportunities for clubs and players to make history. Every season, new stories emerge—of heartbreak, hope, and ambition.
What’s Next for the EFL Championship?
As playoffs approach, excitement builds for promotion deciders and the next wave of talent destined for the Premier League. Clubs look to build on this year’s lessons and challenge for future glory. Stay tuned for more passionate football and unforgettable moments in the EFL Championship.