Matty Godden’s timely goal propelled Charlton into the League One playoff final, securing a 1-0 victory over Wycombe. His goal, which came after a long 171 minutes of action, sets up a date at Wembley with Leighton Orient on May 25. The scene was highly emotional, with manager Nathan Jones visibly overwhelmed as fans rushed the pitch to celebrate.
Earlier in the match, Lloyd Jones missed a significant chance for Charlton, but Kane Ramsay’s two impressive blocks kept Wycombe at bay. Fortunately, Jones redeemed himself by assisting Godden, marking a poignant moment five years after their relegation, just one game away from the Championship.
Wycombe faced challenges leading up to the match; their first-choice goalkeeper, Norris, was sidelined with an injury, forcing Franco Rabizzolli to step in after a long absence. Nervous at first, he struggled with an early low shot from Charlton’s captain, Greg Dochelti.
The initial leg was largely uneventful, and the second leg began slowly amidst the electric atmosphere of a sold-out crowd. Gradually, Charlton began to assert themselves, with Godden making a run to the byline, although Tyrees Campbell failed to capitalize.
Charlton nearly took the lead before halftime, but a significant error from Jones prevented that. Following a cross from Godden, he seemed to miss a golden opportunity right in front of the goal.
After the break, Rabizzolli showcased his skills with a fantastic save to deny a close-range volley from Alex Gilbert. However, Wycombe also posed a threat, particularly with Richard Korn—who, following a red card in the first leg, managed to return as one of their main attacking options.
Korn, recognized as a League One standout, managed to challenge Charlton’s defender McAuley Gillesfey, but his shot found the side netting. The match intensified, and Charlton’s brightest player, Thierry, made a beautiful run and took a left-footed shot that narrowly missed the target.
As the game neared its climax, Wycombe had a crucial opportunity, but on his 38th birthday, Glass McClairy’s attempt was halted by Ramsay. Finally, in the 81st minute, the breakthrough came when Gilesfee launched a long ball toward Wycombe’s area; Jones intercepted just before Rabizzolli, and Godden managed to score into an open net, igniting wild celebrations on the pitch.
