Charlton Athletic 1-0 Watford: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ game week one post-match review of Charlton Athletic 1-0 Watford in the Championship on Saturday, 09 August 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Charlton Athletic secured a surprising 1-0 victory over Watford in the Championship, extending their winning streak to four matches. The game was decided in the dying moments when Harvey Knibbs scored in the 90+4th minute, showcasing Charlton's resilience and ability to capitalise on late opportunities. This result was unexpected given Watford's recent form, which included a mix of results but a strong performance against Sheffield Wednesday. Charlton's ability to maintain a solid defensive structure and exploit a late chance was pivotal in ending Watford's hopes of a positive result.

Despite Watford dominating possession throughout the match, they were unable to convert their control into goals, highlighting their struggles in front of goal. Charlton, on the other hand, continued their trend of tight victories, having won their last three matches by a single goal. This win not only boosts Charlton's confidence but also puts pressure on Watford, who now face a challenging period after this defeat. The match was a testament to Charlton's tactical discipline and their knack for grinding out results, even against stronger opposition.

The statistics from the match reveal a game where Watford had the upper hand in possession, holding 57% compared to Charlton's 43%. Despite this, Charlton managed to secure the win, which suggests their efficiency in utilising their limited possession. The corner count was close, with Charlton taking three and Watford two, indicating a relatively even contest in terms of set-piece opportunities. Notably, Charlton's higher successful dribble percentage (70% vs. Watford's 50%) could have played a crucial role in their ability to create the decisive late goal.

The yellow card count, with Watford receiving two and Charlton one, hints at a slightly more disciplined approach from Charlton. The most significant statistic, however, was the injury time goal scored by Charlton, which ultimately decided the match. This statistic underscores the importance of maintaining focus and intensity until the final whistle, a trait that Charlton demonstrated effectively.

The match's defining moment came in the 90+4th minute when Harvey Knibbs scored the winning goal for Charlton Athletic. This late strike not only secured the victory but also highlighted Charlton's ability to remain composed and capitalise on opportunities in the dying moments of the game. The goal was a result of sustained pressure and a well-executed move, showcasing the team's resilience and determination.

Earlier in the game, both teams made multiple substitutions, with Charlton making four and Watford five. These changes were aimed at altering the game's dynamics, but it was Charlton's final substitution that proved decisive. Harvey Knibbs, who came on in the 80th minute, made an immediate impact by scoring the crucial goal. The yellow cards issued to Greg Docherty for Charlton and Hector Kyprianou and Kwadwo Baah for Watford added tension but did not significantly alter the game's flow

Charlton Athletic lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Thomas Kaminski in goal and a backline of Kayne Ramsay, Lloyd Jones, Amari'i Bell, and Josh Edwards. The midfield was anchored by Conor Coventry and Greg Docherty, with Rob Apter, Sonny Carey, and Tyreece Campbell supporting striker Charlie Kelman. The lineup was largely expected, with no major surprises in the starting XI.

The impact of substitutions was significant, particularly the introduction of Harvey Knibbs in the 80th minute, who scored the winning goal. This late change proved to be a masterstroke by the manager, as Knibbs' fresh legs and energy were crucial in securing the victory. The performance of the starting lineup, combined with the effective use of substitutes, demonstrated Charlton's tactical flexibility and depth.

Watford deployed a 4-3-3 formation, with Egil Selvik in goal and a defense consisting of Jeremy Ngakia, Kévin Keben, James Abankwah, and Marc Bola. The midfield trio of Moussa Sissoko, Imrân Louza, and Hector Kyprianou supported the attacking line of Kwadwo Baah, Luca Kjerrumgaard, and Mamadou Doumbia. The lineup was typical of Watford's recent setups, with no notable surprises.

Despite making five substitutions, including the introduction of Thomas Ince and Nestory Irankunda, Watford were unable to break down Charlton's defense. The changes were aimed at injecting new energy and creativity into the team, but they did not yield the desired impact. The performance of the starting lineup and the lack of effectiveness from the substitutes highlighted areas where Watford may need to improve moving forward.

Rob Apter is Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match for his outstanding performance against Watford. Despite not scoring or assisting, Apter's contribution was significant, creating one big chance and delivering four key passes throughout the game. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates was crucial in maintaining pressure on Watford's defense, ultimately leading to the decisive late goal. Apter's performance exemplified the importance of creativity and vision in midfield, making him a deserving recipient of the award.

Recent matches:

• Win: 1-0 vs Watford (H) - Championship

Recent matches:

• Loss: 0-1 vs Charlton Athletic (A) - Championship

Charlton Athletic sit in 6th place with 3 points after their 1-0 win over Watford. They face Bristol City, in 1st place with 3 points, on August 16, 2025, at 15:00. This victory, driven by Harvey Knibbs’ late goal and a solid defensive display, boosts their confidence. Charlton will aim to maintain their defensive resilience while improving their attacking output against a strong Bristol City side to continue their early momentum.

Bristol City V Charlton - GW2 - Championship

Watford are in 22nd place with 0 points after their 1-0 loss to Charlton, extending their winless streak to three games. They take on QPR, in 12th place with 1 point, on August 16, 2025, at 15:00. Their possession dominance (58%) but failure to score highlights the need to sharpen their finishing and address defensive lapses to turn their fortunes around in the Championship.

Watford V QPR - GW2 - Championship

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.