Álvaro Hernández
Dailysports's expert
On May 25, Wembley will host the League One play-off final, where Charlton Athletic will face Leyton Orient. For this clash, I'm offering a bet on goals, cards, and the match winner.
Charlton Athletic
This team is, of course, remembered for their performances at the turn of the century—under Alan Curbishley, they were a serious contender for European competitions. But those days are long gone, and it seemed the players were stuck in League One. Last season, they managed just 53 points, finishing only sixteenth.
In the new campaign, Nathan Jones and his squad lived up to optimistic expectations. Not only did they improve, but they even tried to challenge Wrexham for second place. Ultimately, they secured fourth in League One with 85 points. Most importantly, they overcame Wycombe: a goalless draw away, followed by a narrow home win thanks to Godden's 81st-minute strike—the only goal of the tie.
Leyton Orient
Like many London-based clubs, this side has long struggled in the shadow of the capital's giants. Their only top-flight appearance came way back in the 1960s. The last decade saw them plummet to the Conference, the fifth tier of English football. But the bounce-back didn’t take long, and last season they were mid-table in League One, finishing eleventh.
This season, Richie Wellens' men have been a revelation. They amassed 78 points, three more than Reading, and clinched a play-off spot in sixth. They then drew both legs with Stockport, ultimately knocking them out on penalties.
Match facts
- Charlton have won four of their last five matches.
- On average, the Addicks score 1.42 goals and concede 0.9 goals per match.
- Leyton Orient are unbeaten in nine consecutive games.
H2H
In their last seven encounters, the clubs have alternated wins. However, this season Charlton won both League One meetings, though they lost to Leyton Orient in the EFL Trophy between those games.
Charlton Athletic vs Leyton Orient prediction
The bookmakers believe the nominal visitors might repeat their heroics from the previous round. Still, I'm backing Charlton to win in regular time (odds – 2.08).
