Knibbs seals stoppage time win for Charlton

Charlton beat Watford 1-0 at The Valley as Harvey Knibbs struck in stoppage time, sending the crowd into a celebratory roar on Charlton’s return to the Championship.

Knibbs seals stoppage time win for Charlton against Watford

Charlton marked their return to the Championship with a 1-0 win over Watford at The Valley. Five summer signings were handed debuts as Charlton lined up in a 3-5-2 formation. Lloyd Jones came close early, Rob Apter created chances, and the home side pressed throughout the first half. Watford created moments of danger but Charlton’s defense held firm and Kaminski was kept busy.

The key moment arrived four minutes into stoppage time when Conor Coventry delivered a deep corner, Lloyd Jones headed it back across goal and Harvey Knibbs finished from close range. There were late penalty appeals from both sides that were waved away, and the attendance reached 21,778, the highest for a home opener at The Valley in 17 years.

Charlton used a steady 3-5-2 shape to control the middle of the park, with debutants making quick impacts and adding width in ball transitions. The late winner suggests the squad has depth and composure to chase results late, especially from set pieces. The night also highlights the club’s renewed confidence at home and a crowd energy that can lift a season when the schedule gets tough.

Watford created chances and pressed after the break, but could not convert. The result places Charlton in a positive frame as they shift from off-season talk to on-pitch proof, while Watford faces questions about finishing and cohesion as the campaign unfolds.

Highlights

The night belongs to Charlton now, and the season will test if this result is the start of something durable.