Okonkwo Error Hands Swansea Late Derby Win Over Wrexham
Arthur Okonkwo endured a brutal final moment as Swansea claimed a 2-1 Welsh derby victory over Wrexham, the goalkeeper’s late mistake deciding a tense contest in the 90th minute.
With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Okonkwo misjudged Ethan Galbraith’s free kick, his attempted punch looping behind him and inviting pressure inside the six-yard box. He recovered to claim Ben Cabango’s header at the near post, only to spill the ball, allowing Adam Idah the simplest of finishes from close range.
The decisive goal came after Swansea had already fought their way back into the match. Zan Vipotnik had levelled on 70 minutes with a shot that deflected off Dom Hyam, shifting the momentum after Wrexham’s early advantage.
The result extends Wrexham’s winless run in the Championship to five matches, while Swansea recorded a third consecutive home victory to move up to 17th, now within two points of their rivals. For the hosts, the comeback underlined growing resilience as the season enters a demanding phase.
The Swansea.com Stadium provided a charged backdrop, with Wrexham striking first after just 14 minutes. Ryan Longman’s delivery from the right caused problems in the box and Cameron Burgess inadvertently headed into his own net under pressure. Swansea responded with control and territory, moving the ball well without creating many clear openings before the break.
Key moments continued to shape a physical contest. Wrexham were dealt a major blow when Lewis O’Brien suffered a serious knee injury and a dislocated shoulder after a heavy challenge from Galbraith, forcing the midfielder off just seven minutes after his introduction and adding to the visitors’ frustration.
Swansea’s equaliser arrived through persistence rather than precision. Vipotnik’s effort took a decisive deflection, wrong-footing Okonkwo and finally giving the home side a foothold. The winner followed late on, Idah reacting quickest after the goalkeeper’s error to turn home from close range.
The second half saw Swansea press higher and Wrexham struggle to regain control, though chances remained scarce. Tactical changes and fresh legs increased the tempo, with the home side sensing an opportunity as the minutes ticked away.
Late drama ultimately defined the derby. Okonkwo’s slip proved costly, but Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson was quick to back his goalkeeper, highlighting the points he has saved over recent seasons and the support he will receive in the dressing room.
For Swansea, the victory reinforces their upward momentum and belief under Vitor Matos. For Wrexham, the challenge now is to recover quickly, regroup, and turn performances into points as the Championship schedule continues to tighten.