Sunderland scored a stoppage-time winner to beat Chelsea 2-1 at Stamford Bridge and climb into second in the Premier League table.
The Black Cats have had a brilliant start to the season since promotion back into the top tier and earned their biggest win of the campaign so far in the capital.
Regis Le Bris’ side came from behind to stun Chelsea, as Chemsdine Talbi’s fine finish sealed the points late on. Chelsea had led inside four minutes through Alejandro Garnacho, but Sunderland levelled on 22 minutes. After a long throw caused panic in the penalty box, the loose ball fell to Wilson Isidor to turn home.
Chelsea pushed for a winner but it was Sunderland who dealt the decisive blow. It continues a dream start for Sunderland, who are thriving on their Premier League return. No team has ever been relegated from the Premier League after earning 17 points or more after nine games.
THAT AWAY END.
THAT PERFORMANCE.
WE ARE SUNDERLAND. pic.twitter.com/Bc91O1eOvs
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) October 25, 2025
Le Bris hailed Sunderland’s quality, praising his squad’s performance. Speaking post-match, Le Bris said: “Our main attributes were what we built last season and during pre-season.
“The togetherness and our ability to defend and suffer together. If you give Chelsea space and time then they will punish you and it was the case after the first few minutes.
“We struggled to find the right balance but in possession I thought we were good. We found spaces in the middle and we pressed high when possible.
“I wanted us to just play the game and try to win,” he continued. “We did well and I am really proud of the staff and the squad – the starters and finishers.
“We worked hard and played good football – it wasn’t obvious to win here but we showed good character and good quality and we found a small opportunity to win the game.
“We are really proud of our fans. We need the extra drive to be competitive in this league. Today was a massive shared experience – their extra high energy is really important.”
Read – Noughties Nostalgia: When Peter Reid’s Sunderland were challenging for Europe
See more – FM26: The best wonderkids in Football Manager 2026
