But what is Sunderland’s record at Wembley, and is it good reading for fans?
In nine visits to the North London ground, Sunderland have picked up three wins. Of the six defeats, two were by penalties.
Match: FA Cup final, 1937
Result: Sunderland 3 – 1 Preston North End
Sunderland made their first appearance at Wembley in 1937, and it was a memorable one as they claimed their first FA Cup victory.
Despite trailing in the early stages, they fought back to secure a 3-1 win over Preston North End, with Raich Carter playing a pivotal role.
Match: FA Cup final, 1973
Result: Sunderland 1 – 0 Leeds United
In 1973, Sunderland returned to Wembley for another FA Cup final, and this time they pulled off a shock victory.
Against Leeds United, the Black Cats, then in the Second Division, secured a 1-0 triumph, thanks to Ian Porterfield’s strike.
Match: Milk Cup final, 1985
Result: Norwich City 1 – 0 Sunderland
Sunderland’s first League Cup final appearance ended in disappointment in 1985, as they were defeated by Norwich City.
Despite a promising start, the Black Cats were unable to find the net and suffered a 1-0 loss.
Match: Division Two play-off final, 1990
Result: Swindon Town 1 – 0 Sunderland
In 1990, Sunderland made their first play-off final appearance, but it ended in a narrow defeat to Swindon Town.
However, Swindon’s subsequent relegation for breaching league rules meant Sunderland were awarded promotion to the top flight.
Match: FA Cup final, 1992
Result: Liverpool 2 – 0 Sunderland
Sunderland’s most recent FA Cup final appearance, in 1992, saw them take on a formidable Liverpool side.
Despite a spirited performance, they were unable to overcome the Reds, who won 2-0.
Match: Division One play-off final, 1998
Result: Charlton Athletic 4 – 4 Sunderland (Charlton won 7-6 on penalties)
The 1998 play-off final against Charlton Athletic is still remembered as one of the most remarkable games ever staged at Wembley.
Despite a thrilling 4-4 draw, Sunderland were left heartbroken as Charlton won the penalty shootout.
Match: Capital One Cup final, 2014
Result: Manchester City 3 – 1 Sunderland
Sunderland’s first appearance at the new Wembley saw them take on Manchester City in the League Cup final.
Despite taking an early lead, the Black Cats were unable to hold on, and City ran out 3-1 winners.
Match: Checkatrade Trophy final, 2019
Result: Portsmouth 2 – 2 Sunderland (Portsmouth won 5-4 on penalties)
In 2019, Sunderland found themselves in the final of the Checkatrade Trophy.
After a thrilling 2-2 draw with Portsmouth, the Black Cats were once again defeated on penalties.
Match: League One play-off final, 2019
Result: Charlton Athletic 2 – 1 Sunderland
Just over two months after their Checkatrade Trophy final defeat, Sunderland were back at Wembley for the League One play-off final.
However, they suffered more heartache as Charlton Athletic scored a last-minute winner to secure a 2-1 victory.
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Match: Papa John’s Trophy final, 2021
Result: Sunderland 1 – 0 Tranmere Rovers
Sunderland’s most recent Wembley appearance, in the 2021 Papa John’s Trophy final, ended in victory.
A solitary Lynden Gooch strike secured a 1-0 win over Tranmere Rovers and the Black Cats’ first Wembley triumph since 1973.
Despite this mixed record at Wembley, Sunderland fans will undoubtedly be hoping for another successful outing in the upcoming Championship play-off final.
