Sunderland Takes a Major Step Towards Premier League Comeback with Victory Over Sheffield Wednesday

Sunderland intensified their pursuit of Premier League promotion with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night.

Eliezer Mayenda was the star of the show once again, netting twice against Wednesday for the second time this season, driving Sunderland to a vital win.

This match had its share of controversy, particularly surrounding his opening goal, which propelled the Black Cats to within five points of second-placed Sheffield United, who are set to take on QPR on Saturday.

Mayenda broke the deadlock in the 34th minute, but Wednesday protested, arguing that he had controlled a long ball from Leo Hjelde with his arm before his mishit effort deflected into the net.

Chris Mepham’s moment of indecision allowed Wednesday to take the lead, with Callum Paterson scoring from a header just three minutes into the second half.

However, Mayenda struck back with a powerful header from a Trai Hume cross in the 71st minute, helping Sunderland bounce back from two consecutive league losses.

This defeat marked the Owls’ third straight loss in the Championship, severely denting their hopes for a play-off spot.