The Black Cats will now face Tranmere Rovers at the national stadium, with Lee Johnson’s side in fine form following a 2-0 win at Portsmouth.
There has been plenty of drama along the way – not least a penalty shootout win over Lincoln in the semi-final.
Here we take an alphabetical look back at the Black Cats’ route to the final.
1. Academy prospects
This season’s competition has provided opportunities for several Sunderland academy graduates including Dan Neil, Oliver Younger, Brandon Taylor and Jack Diamond. Photo: JPI Media
2. Boundary Park
Sunderland came from behind in their first knockout game to win 2-1 at Oldham. Goals from Chris Maguire and Josh Scowen saw the Black Cats progress. Photo: Clive Brunskill
3. Crossbar
During the Black Cats’ penalty shootout win over Lincoln in the semi-finals, eight of nine spot kicks were scored. Ramirez Howarth was the player who missed as Imps man hit the crossbar. Photo: Stu Forster
4. Diamond
Jack Diamond has started five out of Sunderland’s seven games in this year’s competition and scored his first senior goal for the club during a 5-3 win over Carlisle in the group stages. Photo: JPI Media