Bradford City’s Remarkable Year Continues with Thrilling Boxing Day Victory

Introduction: A Year to Remember for the Bantams

Bradford City is experiencing one of its most memorable years in recent history, with 2025 proving to be a transformative period both on and off the pitch. The League One club has captured hearts with their resilience and determination, whilst their home city celebrates its status as UK City of Culture 2025. The Bantams delivered drama on Boxing Day as Joe Wright scored a 90th-minute header against Wigan Athletic, sending Valley Parade’s biggest Boxing Day crowd in 86 years into celebration.

Boxing Day Drama at Valley Parade

Max Power’s corner found Joe Wright, who headed the ball into the far corner to secure a truly remarkable victory in the penultimate game of a truly remarkable year. The match exemplified Bradford City’s character this season, as the team has displayed a calm, methodical wisdom, learning to manage chaos and showing shrewdness in carving out victory by mastering the fine margins. This latest triumph comes after the club overcame a challenging period in November when Bradford City’s winless streak extended to six games, a run that lasted longer than a month.

A Season of Progress Under Graham Alexander

Under manager Graham Alexander’s guidance, Bradford City has demonstrated significant progress throughout 2025. The team’s recent upturn in form has been particularly impressive, with the wonderful old stadium hosting so many wonderful moments over the past 12 months. The club’s success has been built on squad depth and tactical flexibility, though difficult decisions have had to be made. Club legend Andy Cook, who scored 88 goals to become the joint-third highest goalscorer in the club’s history, is a Bradford City legend adored by everyone.

Conclusion: Looking Ahead with Optimism

Bradford City’s 2025 has been about more than just football results. The convergence of the team’s on-pitch success with Bradford’s UK City of Culture celebrations has created a unique atmosphere of pride and optimism throughout the city. This has been a truly remarkable year for the club. As the Bantams continue their League One campaign, supporters have every reason to believe that the momentum built throughout 2025 can carry forward into future success. The dramatic Boxing Day victory serves as a fitting symbol of a club and city rediscovering their confidence and ambition.