Southampton clinched their spot in next season’s Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Leeds United in the Championship promotion playoff final at Wembley Stadium.
Adam Armstrong scored the decisive goal in the 24th minute, marking his 21st goal of the season and sealing the win for Southampton.
The match itself was fairly restrained, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. Leeds were particularly wasteful, managing only one shot on target from their ten attempts.
Southampton’s victory ensures their immediate return to the Premier League after being relegated last season. They join Leicester City and Ipswich Town as the newly promoted sides for the 2024-25 season.
Here’s a closer look at the newcomers to the Premier League:
Leicester City: After an unexpected relegation, Leicester quickly bounced back, finishing first in the Championship. Under the guidance of manager Enzo Maresca, the team expertly blended experienced players with emerging talents, including Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Abdul Fatawu, and veteran Jamie Vardy. Maresca’s tactical skills were evident in Leicester’s impressive offensive and defensive records, ranking in the top two for goals per game and average possession.
Ipswich Town: Returning to the Premier League after nearly two decades, Ipswich Town impressed with their attacking style under manager Kieran McKenna. Key players like Leif Davis, Conor Chaplin, and Nathan Broadhead led the team’s dynamic offense, securing their promotion. Despite their success in the Championship, there are questions about how they will adapt to the Premier League, especially regarding their managerial strategies.
Southampton: After a challenging playoff campaign, Southampton earned their Premier League return by finishing fourth in the Championship. Managed by Russell Martin, the team employed a possession-based strategy, excelling in offensive metrics such as goals per game and shots on target. With Adam Armstrong as their top scorer, Southampton aims to make an impact in the top flight with their attacking prowess and disciplined play.