Championship opener ends in draw

Two top flight hopefuls clash in a tense season starter that ends in a 1-1 draw after late drama.

Birmingham City and Ipswich Town share points in dramatic Championship opener

Birmingham City and Ipswich Town opened the Championship season with a 1-1 draw. Stansfield scored for Birmingham to put them ahead, and Ipswich equalised in stoppage time after a handball led to a late penalty converted by Hirst. The night was marked by frantic stoppages and a stream of substitutions that kept the pace high but spread momentum unevenly between the teams.

From the first whistle there was contest and physicality, with players trading fouls as the match heated up. While Ipswich controlled possession at points, Birmingham used the home ground to press for a winner, only to be denied by a late spot kick and the visitors’ resolve in defense and discipline.

This opener shows how the Championship blends technical ability with high intensity. Ipswich controlled the ball for long spells but failed to convert that control into a decisive win, while Birmingham capitalised on home support to press for a result. The late penalty decision will fuel debate about officiating and its influence on a tight finish. The drama underlines why fans keep coming back to this league.

Looking ahead, both clubs face a busy schedule that will test depth and consistency. Ipswich will want to translate possession into more meaningful chances, especially in the final third, while Birmingham will seek to turn home pressure into more points. The night sets a tone for what could be a bruising but entertaining campaign.

Highlights

This duel adds another chapter to the Championship habit of late twists and tight margins.