Southampton 2-1 Wrexham: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Coral’s game week one post-match review of Southampton 2-1 Wrexham in the Championship on Saturday, 09 August 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Southampton clinched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Wrexham at home, a result that might not have been surprising given their recent form but was certainly thrilling in its execution. The Saints, coming off a draw against Brighton and losses to Arsenal and Everton, managed to turn the tide in the Championship. Wrexham, on the other hand, had been struggling with three consecutive losses before this match, which included defeats in friendlies against Wellington Phoenix and Sydney. The late heroics from Southampton, particularly in injury time, not only ended Wrexham's hopes but also showcased the resilience and determination of the home side.

Jack Stephens emerged as a standout player for Southampton, scoring a crucial goal in the 90+6th minute to secure the win. This victory was significant for Southampton as it broke their recent run of inconsistent results and provided a much-needed boost in morale. Wrexham, despite their efforts and a penalty goal from Josh Windass, couldn't hold on to their lead, highlighting their ongoing challenges in maintaining form. The match was a testament to Southampton's ability to capitalize on late opportunities, a trait that could serve them well in the Championship.

The statistics from the match between Southampton and Wrexham largely reflect the dominance of the home side, with Southampton holding 75% of the ball possession compared to Wrexham's 25%. This significant possession advantage aligns well with Southampton's late victory, as they were able to maintain pressure throughout the game. The Saints also had more corners (7 vs. 3), indicating their control over the game's tempo. However, Wrexham's higher successful dribble percentage (50% vs. 46%) suggests they were more effective in individual duels despite their overall struggle.

One surprising statistic was the equal number of yellow cards (2 each), indicating that both teams were equally disciplined despite the intensity of the match. Southampton's ability to score in injury time, with one goal from Jack Stephens, was a decisive factor in the game's outcome. Wrexham's penalty goal from Josh Windass was not enough to secure a point, as Southampton's late surge proved too much to handle. Overall, the statistics paint a picture of a game where Southampton's dominance eventually paid off.

The match's turning point came in the final minutes, with Southampton scoring twice to overturn Wrexham's lead. Ryan Manning's goal in the 90th minute leveled the score, setting the stage for Jack Stephens' dramatic winner in the 90+6th minute. These late goals were crucial, as they not only secured the victory for Southampton but also highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

Earlier in the game, Wrexham had taken the lead through a penalty scored by Josh Windass in the 22nd minute, putting pressure on Southampton to respond. The game saw several substitutions from both sides, with Southampton making five changes and Wrexham four, indicating tactical adjustments by both managers. The yellow cards shown to Flynn Downes and Cameron Archer for Southampton, and Max Cleworth and James McClean for Wrexham, added to the match's intensity but did not significantly alter the game's flow.

Southampton lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Gavin Bazunu in goal and a back three of Ronnie Edwards, Jack Stephens, and Joshua Quarshie. The midfield was anchored by Flynn Downes and Shea Charles, with Yukinari Sugawara and Welington providing width. Up front, Ryan Fraser and Jay Robinson supported Adam Armstrong. The lineup was fairly standard, with no major surprises, but the impact of the substitutions was notable.

The introduction of Mateus Gonçalo Espanha Fernandes and Damion Downs in the 60th minute, followed by Cameron Archer and Ryan Manning in the 72nd minute, and Ross Stewart in the 80th minute, brought fresh legs and tactical changes that ultimately paid off. Jack Stephens, who started the game, was pivotal, scoring the winning goal in injury time. His performance, along with the late substitutions, played a significant role in Southampton's comeback victory.

Wrexham opted for a 3-5-2 formation, with Danny Ward in goal and a back three of Max Cleworth, Conor Coady, and Lewis Brunt. The midfield was packed with Ryan Barnett, George Dobson, Matty James, Lewis O'Brien, and Liberato Cacace, while Josh Windass and Kieffer Moore led the attack. The lineup was solid, but the team struggled to maintain their lead.

Substitutions were made throughout the game, with Sam Smith coming on in the 54th minute, followed by Ryan Hardie and Ryan Longman in the 72nd and 73rd minutes, respectively, and James McClean in the 85th minute. Despite these changes, Wrexham couldn't hold on to their lead, with Josh Windass's penalty being their only goal. The late substitutions and yellow cards to Max Cleworth and James McClean added to the game's intensity but did not change the outcome.

Jack Stephens is Coral’s Man of the Match for his pivotal role in Southampton's victory over Wrexham. Scoring the winning goal in the 90+6th minute, Stephens demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure and make a significant impact on the game. His contribution was not limited to the goal; he also created one big chance and made one key pass, showcasing his all-around influence on the pitch. Stephens' performance was crucial in securing the three points for Southampton, making him a deserving recipient of the Man of the Match award.

Recent Championship matches:

• Win: 2-1 vs Wrexham (H) - Championship

Recent Championship matches:

• Loss: 1-2 vs Southampton (A) - Championship

Southampton sit in 4th place with 3 points after their 2-1 comeback win over Wrexham. They face Ipswich Town, in 9th place with 1 point, on August 17, 2025, at 12:00. The late goals from Adam Armstrong and Joe Aribo boost their confidence, and they’ll aim to maintain their attacking momentum and defensive solidity to solidify their position in the top half of the Championship.

Ipswich V Southampton - Championship Game Week 2

Wrexham are in 17th place with 0 points after their 2-1 loss to Southampton. They take on West Brom, in 8th place with 3 points, on August 16, 2025, at 12:30. Conceding late goals highlights the need to improve defensive resilience and maintain focus throughout, as they seek their first points against a strong West Brom side.

Wrexham V west Bromwich Albion - Championship Game Week 2

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