Wigan Athletic edged a five-goal thriller against Blackpool in the English Football League Trophy, winning 3-2 at the DW Stadium on 23 September 2026 after a pulsating second half.

Match overview

Wigan Athletic made the faster start and were rewarded with an early opener when their forward pounced on a loose ball inside the box. The home side doubled their advantage soon after, with a sweeping move down the left ending in a powerful finish at the near post. Blackpool responded well, pulling a goal back before half-time through a set-piece routine that exposed Wigan’s marking. The visitors then equalised early in the second half, turning the match into a tense, end-to-end contest. Wigan regained the lead in the 67th minute when their striker produced a composed finish for his second goal of the night, and despite late Blackpool pressure, the hosts held on for a 3-2 victory.

Key moments

• 12th minute – Wigan Athletic 1-0: A defensive clearance fell kindly to Wigan’s forward, who fired low into the bottom corner.
• 31st minute – Wigan Athletic 2-0: A flowing move down the left ended with a cut-back and a first-time finish from the edge of the box.
• 43rd minute – Blackpool 2-1: Blackpool’s winger whipped in a dangerous free-kick, and their centre-back powered a header past the goalkeeper.
• 52nd minute – Blackpool 2-2: A quick counter-attack ended with a low cross that was tapped in at the back post.
• 67th minute – Wigan Athletic 3-2: Wigan’s striker latched onto a through ball, rounded the goalkeeper, and slotted into an empty net.

Tactical story

Wigan’s high press caused Blackpool problems early on, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas and creating the platform for their two-goal lead. Blackpool adjusted by dropping their midfielders deeper and looking to release their wide players on the counter. That change brought them back into the game, and their set-piece threat remained a constant concern for Wigan’s defence. In the final half-hour, Wigan switched to a more compact shape, protecting their lead by narrowing the midfield and forcing Blackpool to play around them rather than through them. The winning goal came from a rare moment of direct play, with Wigan’s striker timing his run perfectly to beat Blackpool’s offside trap.

Standout players

Wigan Athletic’s centre-forward was the standout performer, scoring twice and leading the line with intelligence and strength. His movement pulled Blackpool’s defenders out of position and created space for teammates. Wigan’s left-back also impressed with an energetic display, providing an overlap for the second goal and defending well in one-on-one situations. For Blackpool, their captain in midfield drove the comeback with precise passing and relentless energy, while their winger was a constant threat from set pieces and open play.

What the result means

The 3-2 win gives Wigan Athletic a major boost in the EFL Trophy group, moving them into a strong position with three points from a highly competitive fixture. Blackpool will be frustrated to have taken nothing from a game in which they fought back from two goals down, but their attacking display offered positives. With the group stage still finely balanced, both teams know that defensive concentration in the remaining matches will be crucial to their chances of advancing.