Charlton
Stoke City
The Valley, London
Wednesday, 11 Feb 2026 at 19:45
Late Godden Strike Lifts Charlton Over Stoke in Gritty Valley Clash
Charlton edged out Stoke City 1-0 at The Valley thanks to a late goal from Matt Godden in the 81st minute, capping off a hard-fought contest where the hosts made the most of their limited possession. Despite Stoke City dominating the ball with 64% possession and dictating much of the tempo, they struggled to create clear-cut chances, managing just two shots on target from six attempts. Charlton, meanwhile, were more direct and purposeful, firing 17 shots and forcing Stoke’s defence into several crucial interventions. The match was a tale of two contrasting approaches: Stoke’s patient build-up and Charlton’s incisive counters. As the game wore on, Charlton’s persistence paid off, with Godden’s late finish proving decisive. The visitors’ frustration was evident, picking up four yellow cards as they chased the game in vain. Ultimately, Charlton’s defensive discipline and opportunism in front of goal secured a valuable three points.
Charlton
Charlton delivered a resilient display, soaking up pressure for much of the match but remaining dangerous on the break. Despite having just 36% possession, they carved out 17 shots—four on target—and showed greater attacking intent than their visitors. The back three, marshaled by L. Jones and A. Bell, stood firm, while the midfield worked tirelessly to disrupt Stoke’s rhythm. The late winner was a testament to their perseverance and tactical discipline.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
Stoke City
Stoke City controlled the majority of possession and dictated the tempo, but their dominance failed to translate into meaningful opportunities. With just six shots and only two on target, their attacking play lacked penetration against a well-drilled Charlton backline. The midfield trio of S. N'Zonzi, T. Seko, and T. Rigo circulated the ball efficiently but struggled to break through the hosts’ defensive block. Frustration mounted as the game progressed, reflected in four yellow cards and a lack of composure in the final third.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
⏱️Key Moments
81' - Goal
M. Godden scores to give Charlton the lead after sustained pressure.
65' - Yellow Card
Stoke City’s frustration grows as S. Thomas is booked for a late challenge.
72' - Yellow Card
Charlton’s C. Coady receives a yellow for a tactical foul, halting a Stoke counter.
88' - Yellow Card
Stoke City’s B. Lawal picks up a booking as the visitors push for an equalizer.
📋Tactical Analysis
Charlton set up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, prioritizing defensive solidity and looking to spring forward through wing-backs and the pace of their front three. The back three remained compact, with midfielders dropping deep to congest central areas and frustrate Stoke's attempts at intricate build-up. Stoke City, in their 4-2-3-1, enjoyed lengthy spells of possession but often found themselves circulating the ball without penetration, as Charlton’s disciplined shape forced them wide and limited space between the lines. Substitutions from both sides aimed to inject fresh legs and attacking impetus, but it was Charlton’s tactical patience that paid off. Their willingness to concede possession in exchange for defensive stability and quick transitions ultimately proved decisive, as Godden’s late goal came from one of the few moments where Stoke’s rearguard was caught out.
Turning Point
M. Godden’s 81st-minute goal, which broke the deadlock and forced Stoke to chase the game in the closing stages.
⭐Man of the Match
M. Godden
Scored the crucial winning goal and led the line with determination throughout.