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Wolves 2-2 Blackburn: Jimenez stoppage-time penalty salvages dramatic draw (full highlights)

Wolverhampton Wanderers began their first Championship campaign in eight years with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Blackburn Rovers at Molineux, as Raul Jimenez scored a stoppage-time penalty to rescue a point for the hosts. The returning hero, who bought a scarf for every fan in the South Bank, converted from the spot in the 93rd minute after Ryan Alebiosu was adjudged to have handled Jackson Tchatchoua's cross inside the box, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters. Wolves had taken the lead through Marshall Munetsi in the 18th minute, the Zimbabwean midfielder slotting home after a clever pass from Fer Lopez, but Blackburn responded well and equalised just 10 minutes later when Sean McLoughlin glanced a header past Dan Bentley from Ryoya Morishita's cross. The visitors stunned Molineux early in the second half when Andri Gudjohnsen, son of Chelsea legend Eidur, tapped in from close range after Dapo Afolayan's delivery. Despite dominating possession with 55.2% and registering 18 shots to Blackburn's 10, Wolves struggled to break down a resilient Rovers defence until the late penalty decision. Referee Farai Hallam's call sparked immediate debate, with Blackburn boss Tony Mowbray insisting the handball occurred outside the box, while player of the match Alebiosu admitted his frustration but accepted the decision. With an expected goals tally of 2.04 compared to Blackburn's 0.82, Cesar Peixoto's side will need to improve their efficiency in front of goal, but the late equaliser ensures their Championship return did not end in defeat. The full match highlights and all goals are available to watch, showcasing a classic Championship encounter that lived up to its billing on the opening night of the season.

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