The stakes in the Championship playoff final just got even higher—and not just for the players on the pitch. Southampton fans have been warned that the winner-takes-all match, which decides who secures the final promotion spot to the Premier League, could face major changes due to a brewing spying scandal.

The English Football League (EFL) confirmed on Thursday that it is investigating allegations that Southampton secretly filmed Middlesbrough's training sessions before their two-legged semifinal clash. The club was formally charged last Friday with breaching league regulations, and the disciplinary hearing is set to take place on or before May 19—just days before the scheduled Wembley final on May 23.

While the EFL insists it's still planning to host the match as planned, it issued a stark warning to fans: "The outcome of the disciplinary proceedings may yet result in changes to the fixture." For supporters already booking travel and accommodations, this uncertainty adds a layer of anxiety to what should be a straightforward celebration of football's biggest day.

Southampton, who won their semifinal tie against Middlesbrough, are now set to face Hull City at Wembley. But the league's statement left the door open for serious consequences, including the possibility that Southampton could be barred from the final or that the match itself could be postponed. "The EFL has a number of contingency plans should they be required, which also includes consideration of any appeal process," the statement added.

This isn't the first time spying has made headlines in English football—remember the "Spygate" saga involving Leeds United and Marcelo Bielsa? But the potential impact here is far more severe, with a Premier League place and millions of pounds in revenue on the line. For now, fans on both sides will be watching the clock, hoping for clarity before the big day.