Matt Godden’s late strike secured a 2-1 victory for Charlton Athletic against Sheffield United at The Valley on Saturday, extending the Addicks’ run of positive results against the Blades.
Milenic Alli opened the scoring in the 12th minute, catching goalkeeper Michael Cooper off guard with a low shot from the edge of the penalty area. Charlton pressed on, with Tyreece Campbell delivering a dangerous cross soon after, though Mwamba could not convert the chance. Sheffield United responded in the 25th minute when Jordan Ayew capitalised on a chaotic moment inside the box, heading in from close range after goalkeeper Mannion could only parry a Kalvin Phillips free-kick delivery.
The first half ended with several cautions as the game grew physical. Charlton’s McNamara and Bindon and Sheffield United’s Choudhury all received yellow cards following late challenges and fouls.
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder made a substitution at half-time, replacing Choudhury with Seriki. However, Seriki’s afternoon was cut short just two minutes after the restart when he was stretchered off following a heavy collision with Campbell. McGuinness came on to fill the defensive gap. Charlton continued to press aggressively, with Rankin-Costello also booked for a reckless challenge on Chong.
Alli remained a constant threat, forcing Cooper into an easy save from a long-range effort in the 65th minute. Sheffield United responded with a chance of their own as Ayew’s cross found Burrows, but Mannion gathered comfortably.
Charlton’s substitution of Godden for Kelman in the 75th minute proved decisive. Four minutes after coming on, Godden finished sharply at the near post after Alli drove forward and delivered a precise ball into the box. The goal sent The Valley crowd into celebration and put Charlton ahead for the second time.
Sheffield United pushed for an equaliser in the final minutes, with Peck unleashing a low shot towards the near post. Mannion produced a sharp save to deny the visitors and preserve Charlton’s lead.
Charlton started with Mannion in goal alongside Coventry, Campbell, Koumetio, and Bell in defence. The midfield featured Alli, McNamara, and Kelman, with Rankin-Costello, Mwamba, and Bindon completing the lineup. Sheffield United’s side included Cooper in goal, Tanganga, Choudhury, Ayew, Donovan, Burrows, Kitching, Chong, Brereton Diaz, Phillips, and Peck.
The win extends Charlton’s positive record against Sheffield United in the Championship this season. The match was marked by physicality, with multiple bookings and a serious injury forcing an early substitution for the Blades. Godden’s introduction and late goal proved the difference in a closely contested encounter.
According to Yahoo Sports.
