Wrexham Stuns QPR With Thrilling Stoppage-Time Comeback

A thrilling Championship encounter unfolded on January 24, 2026, as Wrexham produced a stunning stoppage-time comeback to defeat Queens Park Rangers 3-2 at Loftus Road. This victory not only secured three crucial points for Wrexham but also propelled them into the playoff positions for the first time this season.

Match Overview

Wrexham faced QPR in a mid-table clash with significant playoff implications. Both teams were eager to climb the standings, with Wrexham beginning the match in 10th place (41 points) and QPR just behind in 12th (40 points).

First Half Dynamics

QPR started strongly, showcasing aggressive intent early in the match. Within the first six minutes, Harvey Vale scored with a stunning left-footed volley following a rebound from Kader Dembele’s shot that hit the crossbar. Wrexham struggled to respond, failing to register a shot on target in the first half, while QPR dominated possession.

• QPR’s goal: Harvey Vale (6th minute)
• Wrexham’s first-half struggles included missed opportunities.

Wrexham’s Resilience

Manager Phil Parkinson’s tactical adjustments at halftime revitalized Wrexham. They equalized in the 54th minute when Callum Doyle scored his first goal for the club with a low shot that nestled inside the near post.

QPR Regains the Lead

As the match progressed, QPR regained the lead in the 80th minute when Steve Cook scored from a corner, seemingly securing the victory. However, the home side’s situation worsened shortly after, with Amadou Mbengue receiving a second yellow card, leaving QPR with ten men.

• QPR’s second goal: Steve Cook (80th minute)
• Amadou Mbengue sent off late in the match.

Stoppage-Time Thrills

With the clock running down, Wrexham seized their opportunity. In the 93rd minute, Josh Windass scored to level the match at 2-2. Moments later, in the 95th minute, Oliver Rathbone clinched a dramatic victory with a powerful shot from outside the box. This marked Rathbone’s fifth goal of the season and sealed Wrexham’s thrilling comeback.

Statistics and Implications

The victory for Wrexham is pivotal, as it marks their first entry into the playoff spots this season, now sitting sixth in the table with 44 points from 29 matches. Their ability to secure points from losing positions has been notable this season, amassing 15 points in such scenarios.

• Current Standing: Wrexham 6th (44 points), QPR 12th (40 points)
• Wrexham’s performance: 15 points secured from losing positions.

Upcoming Challenges

Wrexham’s upcoming fixtures include a match against last-placed Sheffield Wednesday and a high-stakes game against Millwall, currently in the playoff spots. Meanwhile, QPR must regroup after this defeat, aiming to reignite their playoff aspirations.

This match encapsulated the unpredictable nature of the Championship, reminding fans that late drama is a hallmark of English football. Wrexham’s resilience and determination have set a new benchmark for the team as they chase their ambitions.