Blackburn Rovers vs Charlton: Baradji Brace Secures Dramatic Comeback Draw

5 January 2026 Sports

Championship Relegation Battle Produces Thrilling Encounter

In a crucial Sky Bet Championship fixture on Sunday, 4th January 2026, Moussa Baradji scored his first Blackburn goals as his brace helped Rovers hit back from two down to snatch an entertaining 2-2 draw with fellow strugglers Charlton at Ewood Park. The match, which took place before an attendance of 11,367, proved vital for both teams locked in a battle to avoid relegation from the Championship.

Charlton’s Strong Start and Kelman’s Double

Winless in four games and without a goal in three, Blackburn looked set to slip deeper into relegation trouble when a quickfire Charlie Kelman double, a close-range volley in the 28th minute and a controversial penalty six minutes later, put the visitors in command. The Addicks appeared to be cruising towards victory, building on their previous 3-0 win over Rovers earlier in the season.

Baradji’s Heroics Spark Comeback

The turning point came shortly before half-time when on-loan midfielder Baradji halved the deficit before half-time with a thumping header before slotting home a deserved equaliser 13 minutes from time. Rovers deservedly pulled level with 13 minutes remaining and once again a perfectly-timed Baradji run did the damage as he arrived in the area to meet Miller’s low centre and fire beyond Kaminski.

Implications for the Relegation Battle

The result leaves both teams in precarious positions in the Championship table. The point moved Valerien Ismael’s side four clear of the drop zone, whilst Charlton are winless in four but remain a place and a point above Rovers. Blackburn manager Valérien Ismaël praised Baradji after the match, calling him a “special player” and expressing satisfaction with his development. For both clubs, the draw represents an opportunity missed but also a point gained in their fight for Championship survival. The entertainment value was undeniable, showcasing the passion and determination required in the English second tier’s relegation battle.