Blackburn Rovers vs Charlton Athletic: Kelman Heroics Secure Crucial Away Victory

4 January 2026 Football

Introduction: Relegation Battle Intensifies

In a pivotal Sky Bet Championship clash on 4 January 2026, Charlton Athletic secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park. This result carries immense significance for both sides, who are locked in a tense battle near the relegation zone. With Blackburn sitting 20th and Charlton just one place above them in 19th position, every point matters as the season enters a critical phase.

Match Details and Key Moments

Charlie Kelman emerged as Charlton’s hero, netting both goals for the Addicks in their hard-fought away triumph. The striker opened the scoring with a clinical finish from the centre of the box, giving Nathan Jones’ side an early advantage. Kelman doubled Charlton’s lead from the penalty spot after Harry Pickering conceded a foul in the area, with Lloyd Jones drawing the penalty.

Blackburn, desperately seeking points to escape the drop zone, pulled one back through Moussa Baradji, who headed home to make it 2-1. Despite late pressure from the hosts, Charlton held firm to secure all three points. The match took place during a demanding festive period schedule, representing Charlton’s third away fixture in four games over the Christmas and New Year period.

Injury Crisis and Team Context

Both teams entered the fixture significantly weakened by injuries. Charlton remained without Kayne Ramsay, Josh Edwards, Onel Hernández, and Matty Godden, whilst Blackburn’s lengthy injury list included Hayden Carter, Scott Wharton, Adam Forshaw, Andri Gudjohnsen, and several others. Additionally, Ryan Alebiosu was unavailable for the hosts due to international duty with Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Significance and Implications

This victory proves vital for Charlton Athletic in their fight for Championship survival. The Addicks had managed just one win in their previous ten outings before this match, making this result particularly important for building momentum. For Blackburn Rovers, the defeat extends their difficult run, having secured only one victory in their last nine matches. The loss leaves them perilously positioned just three points above the relegation zone, intensifying pressure on manager Valérien Ismaël.

Looking ahead, both clubs must navigate a challenging Championship campaign where every result could prove decisive in determining their fate come season’s end.