Sky Bet League 1 Playoffs 2025: Dates and Team Fixtures, Championship Final, and Everything You Need to Know about the EFL 

As we head into one of the most thrilling periods of the English football season, the Sky Bet League One Playoffs 2025 promise drama, tension, and unforgettable moments. With promotion to the Championship at stake, fans are eager to discover which team will triumph in the playoff final at Wembley Stadium. This article is your complete guide to the League One play-off phase — covering dates and teams, how the fixtures are set up, and what you can expect as we move toward the final showdown.

Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or a casual observer of the EFL, this is a must-read guide filled with match breakdowns, play-off structure, and the road to being promoted to the Championship.

Now, let’s dive into the League One drama of 2025.

What are the League One Playoffs and How Do They Work in the Championship?

The League One playoffs are part of the EFL’s post-season contest where teams finishing from third to sixth in the regular season compete for the final promotion spot to the Championship — the second tier of English football.

Unlike the automatic promotion spots awarded to the top two teams, the League One play-off adds a thrilling climax to the season. The four teams that finish just below the automatic places face off in two-legged semi-finals followed by a one-off final at Wembley. This knockout format delivers high tension, unpredictable outcomes, and the ultimate football dream for one lucky club.

Which EFL Teams Qualify for the 2025 League One Play-Offs?

In the 2025 campaign, the teams that finish third to sixth will compete in the play-offs 2025. As the final day of the season wraps up, the dates and teams involved have been locked in. Among the favorites are Wycombe Wanderers, Leyton Orient, and the ever-ambitious Charlton Athletic.

Also in the mix are Oxford, who secured sixth place by edging past Walsall in a dramatic final fixture. Past play-off matches have shown that form can go out the window—every team has a fighting chance.

When Are the 2025 League One Playoff Fixtures Scheduled?

The EFL has released the official fixture dates for the Sky Bet League One play-off. The first leg of the semi-finals kicks off on Sunday 11 May, followed by the second leg just days later. The climactic final at Wembley Stadium is scheduled for Sunday 25 May, making it a bank holiday weekend football feast.

This timeline ensures all four clubs have just enough rest and prep time between matches, adding to the intensity and tactical mind games that define the League One play-off final.

How Are the Semi-Final Matches Decided?

Each semi-final in the League One playoffs is played over two legs — a home and away match for each club. The aggregate score across both games determines the winner of each semi-final.

If the aggregate score is level, the tie is decided in extra-time and, if necessary, by a penalty shootout. Unlike other competitions, away goals do not count as a tiebreaker in the EFL play-offs. This ensures a fair and neutral outcome based purely on performance.

Where is the League One Play-Off Final Held?

The League One play-off final is traditionally held at Wembley Stadium, the heart of English football. For the 2025 season, the play-off final at Wembley Stadium will be played on Sunday 25 May.

This iconic venue has hosted historic football moments and offers an unforgettable experience for both players and supporters. The chance to walk out at Wembley is a dream come true for any club fighting for promotion to the Championship.

Key Teams to Watch in the 2025 League One Playoffs

Each year, the Sky Bet League One play-off features a mix of experienced contenders and rising challengers. In 2025, Leyton Orient looks to continue its impressive rise through the English Football League. Also, Stockport, having narrowly missed automatic promotion, are favorites to make it through.

Don’t count out Walsall or Oxford, both of whom have shown strong form in the final weeks. And then there’s Sheffield Wednesday, a club with Championship-level pedigree, looking for redemption after last year’s collapse.

What Happens If the Aggregate Score is Level After Two Legs?

If the aggregate score is level after the two-legged semi-final, the contest heads into extra-time. Should the score still remain tied, a penalty shootout follows. This dramatic finish has defined many play-off matches in years past.

This rule adds an element of unpredictability to the EFL League One playoffs. Fans still talk about Sunderland losing on penalties, or Sheffield United’s heartbreak after a last-minute goal in extra-time. The margin between agony and ecstasy is razor-thin.

Why the League One Play-Off Final Is So Important

For many clubs, the League One play-off final is their best—or only—chance at promotion. The financial boost, increased visibility, and access to higher-tier competition make reaching the Championship a game-changing achievement.

Playing in the final at Wembley Stadium is not just a matter of pride. It’s the culmination of months of effort, and often, the key to survival or revival. The winner doesn’t just get a trophy—they earn a new chapter in the English football league narrative.

Notable Past Winners and Their Success Stories

The League One playoffs have produced some legendary finals. Charlton Athletic’s last-minute winner. Wycombe Wanderers’ unexpected rise. Sunderland’s eventual triumph after multiple heartbreaks.

Also worth mentioning is Bristol City, who bounced back to the Championship after a memorable play-off final win at Wembley. Sheffield United, after a long spell in the lower leagues, used the playoffs as a springboard back to the second tier and eventually, even the Premier League.

Where to Watch the League One Playoff Matches Live

All League One playoff matches live will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, the official host for EFL post-season games. This ensures fans across the UK — and the world — can follow the action, from the first leg of the semi-finals to the dramatic play-off final.

If you’re a supporter who can’t get a ticket to Wembley, tuning in live is the next best thing. The build-up, in-game commentary, and post-match analysis capture every emotional high and low.

Summary: Key Takeaways from the Sky Bet League One Playoffs 2025

• The League One playoffs decide the final promotion spot to the Championship.
• Teams that finish 3rd to 6th compete in two-legged semi-finals, followed by a play-off final.
• The 2025 League One play-off final will take place at Wembley Stadium on Sunday 25 May.
• Fixtures start on 11 May, giving fans a packed fortnight of football.
• Aggregate score across both legs determines semi-final winners; extra-time and penalties follow if needed.
• Big-name teams like Leyton Orient, Stockport, Oxford, and Sheffield Wednesday are in the mix.
• The final is broadcast live on Sky Sports for fans across the country.
• Past playoff finals have offered unforgettable moments and dramatic conclusions.
• Winning the League One play-off final can define a club’s future trajectory.

The stage is set. The prize is immense. The emotion is raw. The Sky Bet League One Play-Offs 2025 are here — and they’re unmissable.