Raul Jimenez emerged as the hero for Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring a last-minute penalty to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Blackburn Rovers in their Championship opener on Friday. This match marked Wolves' return to the second tier of English football after their relegation from the Premier League last season.
In his first match as Wolves' head coach, Cesar Peixoto faced a potential defeat until Jimenez stepped up in stoppage time. The Mexican international, who recently helped his national team reach the knockout stages of the World Cup, converted the penalty after Ryan Alebiosu was penalized for handling a cross from Jackson Tchatchoua.
Wolves initially took the lead in the 18th minute when Marshall Munetsi finished a well-placed pass from Fer Lopez. However, the home side's joy was short-lived as Blackburn equalized shortly after through Sean McLoughlin's clever header. The visitors then took the lead early in the second half with a close-range goal from Andri Gudjohnsen, leaving Wolves in a precarious position.
Despite the setback, Jimenez's late intervention not only salvaged a point for Wolves but also marked a significant moment in his return to the club. To celebrate his comeback, he gifted scarves to fans in the South Bank stand, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support over the years. "It’s really amazing to be back and scoring in the first game. It’s nice to give them back some love they were showing me for the past eight years," Jimenez said.
Wolves' performance last season was disappointing, winning only three league matches, which led to protests against the club's Chinese owners, Fosun. With the pressure on Peixoto to deliver results quickly, the team will be looking to build on this draw as they aim for an immediate return to the Premier League.
As the Championship season unfolds, Wolves are considered second favorites for promotion, trailing only West Ham, who retained their manager Nuno Espirito Santo. Burnley, another club relegated from the Premier League, is also in contention for a swift return, having achieved promotion from the Championship in their last two attempts.
The Championship promises to be competitive this season, with clubs like Southampton and Middlesbrough also vying for success. Southampton, who faced controversy last season due to a spying scandal, will be looking to redeem themselves when they begin their campaign against Watford on Sunday.
Sources
- Punch Newspapers Original article
