AFC Wimbledon pulled off a stunning upset by defeating Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town on penalties, securing their place in the third round of the Carabao Cup. In a thrilling encounter at Plough Lane, the League Two side held their nerve in a dramatic shootout, triumphing 4-2 after the match ended 2-2 in regular time.
Early Drama Sets the Stage
The match started at a frenetic pace, with AFC Wimbledon showing no signs of intimidation against their top-tier opponents. Despite Ipswich Town’s status as a Premier League club, it was the Dons who drew first blood, thanks to a familiar face. Ali Al-Hamadi, who joined Ipswich from AFC Wimbledon in the summer, opened the scoring in the third minute with a powerful header from Conor Townsend’s corner. The goal was a bitter pill for the Wimbledon faithful to swallow, as their former striker showed why Ipswich had invested in his services.
However, instead of wilting under the early pressure, AFC Wimbledon responded with resilience and determination. They fought back into the game, gradually finding their rhythm and matching Ipswich in intensity and creativity. Their persistence paid off just before halftime when Omar Bugiel rose to meet Jake Reeves’ perfectly weighted free-kick, directing a header past Ipswich goalkeeper Christian Walton to level the score at 1-1.
Wimbledon Takes the Lead
The equalizer buoyed the Dons, and they came out in the second half with renewed confidence. Manager Johnnie Jackson’s tactical adjustments at halftime paid dividends as Wimbledon began to dominate set-piece situations, clearly identifying them as a weak spot in Ipswich’s defense. The breakthrough came in the 65th minute when Matty Stevens, showing great aerial prowess, rose highest in a crowded penalty area to head in a goal from close range. His goal gave Wimbledon a 2-1 lead and brought the home crowd to life, sensing a famous cup upset on the horizon.
As the minutes ticked down, Wimbledon seemed to be on course for a memorable victory. Their defense, marshaled by the experienced Will Nightingale, stood firm against wave after wave of Ipswich attacks. The Dons looked organized and disciplined, keeping the Premier League side at bay with determined tackling and clever positioning.
Late Drama and Penalty Shootout
However, just when it seemed Wimbledon might hang on for a famous win in regulation time, Ipswich found a lifeline. With only four minutes remaining on the clock, Ipswich’s Conor Chaplin popped up to head home a dramatic equalizer. It was a cruel blow for Wimbledon, who had defended so valiantly, but they were determined not to let their hard work go to waste.
Ipswich, despite their higher league status, were unable to hold their nerve. AFC Wimbledon’s Owen Goodman, who had been solid throughout the match, turned into the hero of the shootout. He saved Jack Taylor’s opening penalty, setting the tone for the shootout, and then denied Omari Hutchinson with another fine stop. In contrast, Wimbledon’s penalty takers were clinical, with Paul Kalambayi, Jake Reeves, and Omar Bugiel all converting their spot-kicks before the decisive fourth from captain Alex Woodyard sealed a 4-2 victory.
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