Hostility Reignited: Coventry City and Sunderland’s Fierce Rivalry Since ’77 Reaches Boiling Point as Bragging Rights Hang in the Balance
Coventry City’s hopes of reaching Wembley hang in the balance as they head into Tuesday’s second leg of their Championship play-off semi-final against Sunderland trailing 2-1. A costly late mistake by Milan van Ewijk handed the Black Cats a crucial edge, but the Sky Blues remain defiant. With a storied rivalry dating back to 1977—fueled by controversy, resentment, and decades of tension—this clash is about more than just promotion. For Sunderland fans, it’s a chance to avenge the infamous final day of the 1976/77 season, while for Coventry, it’s an opportunity to overcome history and write a new chapter under Frank Lampard’s leadership.