Key Moments in the EFL Easter Weekend Drama

Apr 20, 2025 at 5:52 PM

The Easter weekend in the English Football League (EFL) has set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the regular season. With only three games left, the Championship, League One, and League Two are brimming with drama at both ends of the table. Leeds United and Burnley stand on the brink of securing automatic promotion to the Premier League, while Plymouth Argyle's survival hopes hang by a thread. In League One, the race for the final playoff spot is heating up, and Carlisle United continues their unlikely bid to avoid relegation. This long weekend promises significant swings in fortune, as teams fight for their respective ambitions.

In the Championship, Leeds United and Burnley find themselves poised to return to the top flight. Sheffield United's recent struggles have widened the gap between them and the top two, leaving Chris Wilder's side potentially relegated to the playoffs. A defeat against Burnley combined with a Leeds victory over Stoke could end Sheffield’s immediate hopes. Leeds manager Daniel Farke remains cautious despite his team's strong form, emphasizing the relentless nature of the league. Meanwhile, Scott Parker leads Burnley with confidence, highlighting their mental fortitude. A win would also tie Reading's record from 2005-06 for non-playoff victories in a single season.

Plymouth Argyle faces an uphill battle to avoid relegation after a disheartening loss to Middlesbrough. Managed now by Miron Muslic following Wayne Rooney's departure, they must overcome daunting odds with Coventry City visiting Home Park. Derby County, just above the drop zone, travels to West Bromwich Albion. The Pilgrims' goal difference significantly lags behind Derby's, making any slip-up potentially catastrophic. Even if Plymouth triumphs, a Derby win might leave them six points adrift with only two matches left. Additionally, a poor result for Plymouth could extinguish West Brom's slim playoff aspirations.

League One sees Birmingham celebrating their title win amidst a tight race for promotion. Wrexham trails Wycombe by one point in the chase for automatic promotion, but the most intense competition lies in securing the final playoff berth. Leyton Orient currently holds this position, though Blackpool, having a game in hand, aims to close the six-point gap. Steve Bruce's team hosts Wrexham, while Orient visits Cambridge United, whose relegation fears loom large. Reading, tied with Orient, faces Mansfield Town. Huddersfield and Bolton Wanderers also vie for spots, knowing that missteps could end their campaigns prematurely.

Carlisle United exemplifies resilience under new management, clawing back from near-relegation certainty. Mark Hughes’ arrival rejuvenated the squad, cutting the deficit to safety from nine to four points through consecutive wins. Their latest victory over Port Vale boosts morale ahead of a crucial match against Accrington Stanley. Despite Accrington’s recent triumph over Salford, inconsistency plagues their campaign. At the bottom, Morecambe risks certain relegation without a win over Salford. At the top, Port Vale seeks redemption against Grimsby Town, who remain in playoff contention alongside Colchester United challenging Doncaster Rovers.

As the dust settles from this eventful weekend, several narratives will take clearer shape. Teams like Leeds and Burnley may clinch coveted promotions, while Plymouth's fight for survival reaches its climax. In League One, playoff positions could shift dramatically depending on results. Each contest carries immense weight, ensuring fans across England are captivated by what promises to be a memorable end to the season.