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Hull City earned their return to the Premier League in the most dramatic fashion possible. |
In a match overshadowed by the "Spygate" scandal and the sweltering 28°C heat in London on May 23rd, Oli McBurnie became the hero with a goal in the final minute of injury time, bringing Hull an estimated £215 million in revenue from securing a place in the Premier League next season.
Middlesbrough started better, dominating possession for much of the first half. Kim Hellberg's side created several dangerous chances, most notably David Strelec's close-range header over the bar after a precise cross from Alan Browne.
Hull City were outplayed for the first 20 minutes and were almost unable to get the ball to attacking players like Mo Belloumi or Liam Millar. However, towards the end of the first half, the yellow and black striped team gradually regained control of the game.
In the 39th minute, McBurnie nearly opened the scoring when he rose high to head the ball against the crossbar from a left-wing cross by Ryan Giles. That was also Hull City's first real warning to the Middlesbrough defense.
After the break, the game continued to be evenly matched. Middlesbrough had more possession but struggled to find the net. Hull City played defensively, waiting for opportunities to counter-attack and maintaining a solid defense.
Just when the match seemed destined for extra time, the decisive moment came in the third minute of added time. Yu Hirakawa sprinted down the left wing and delivered a dangerous cross into the penalty area. Goalkeeper Sol Brynn fumbled the ball, and McBurnie immediately pounced on the rebound, slotting it into the Middlesbrough net.
That moment sent the Hull City stands into a frenzy. The Scottish striker also delivered the perfect response after being left out of the Scotland squad for the 2026 World Cup by manager Steve Clarke.
This marks Hull City's return to the Premier League since 2017. Notably, just a year ago they were struggling to avoid relegation from the Championship until the final matchday.
Meanwhile, Middlesbrough continues its pattern of failure in the play-offs. Since their promotion in 1988, the team has lost all four of their most recent play-off campaigns.
Source: https://znews.vn/hull-tro-lai-premier-league-post1653703.html
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