Jimenez’s Late Penalty Rescues Wolves in Thrilling Championship Opener Against Blackburn
In a pulsating start to their 2026/27 Championship campaign, Wolves twice came from behind to snatch a 2-2 draw against Blackburn Rovers at Molineux. The match was highlighted by a dramatic late penalty from Raul Jimenez, who marked his second debut for the club in style. The Mexican striker, still regaining full match fitness, stepped up in stoppage time to convert from the spot, earning a point that felt like a victory for the home side.
Wolves began brightly, taking the lead inside 20 minutes through Marshall Munetsi, who finished coolly after a sublime sliding pass from Fer Lopez. The home side dominated the first half, but Blackburn equalized against the run of play when Sean McLoughlin headed home from Ryoya Morishita’s cross. The visitors then stunned the crowd by taking the lead in the second half, and for a while, they looked set to secure all three points with a resolute defensive display.
However, Wolves’ persistence paid off in the dying moments. A late penalty, awarded after a handball in the box, gave Jimenez the chance to be the hero. The 35-year-old, who rejoined the club this summer, kept his composure to send the goalkeeper the wrong way and spark wild celebrations. Manager Cesar Peixoto, who was taking charge of his first league game, will have learned valuable lessons about the unpredictable nature of the Championship, where no opponent can be taken lightly.
The result leaves Wolves with a point from their opening fixture, but the performance, particularly in the second half, will give fans optimism for the season ahead. With key players like Kieran Trippier making their debuts and Jimenez showing his enduring quality, there is a sense of renewed belief around Molineux. Blackburn, meanwhile, will be disappointed not to have held on, but their display suggests they will be a tough nut to crack this season.
Shimanta Das 
