Southampton snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory against Wrexham in their opening Championship match at St. Mary's Stadium on August 9, 2025, thanks to a late surge spearheaded by Ryan Manning and Jack Stephens. Wrexham, returning to the second tier of English football after 43 years, appeared poised for a triumphant comeback until Southampton's late heroics.

The match began with both teams displaying attacking intent. Wrexham was awarded a penalty in the 22nd minute when Ronnie Edwards fouled Kieffer Moore in the box. Josh Windass confidently converted the penalty, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead. Wrexham maintained their lead through a strong defensive effort, with Conor Coady making crucial blocks before halftime, denying Adam Armstrong's rebound attempt.

Southampton, under the guidance of new manager Will Still, struggled to break down Wrexham's defense for much of the game. Despite creating numerous chances and applying sustained pressure, they found Wrexham goalkeeper Danny Ward in formidable form. Ward made seven saves throughout the match, frustrating the Saints' attacking efforts.

As the game entered its final stages, Wrexham seemed on course for a historic victory. However, in the 90th minute, Ryan Manning, who came on as a substitute in the 72nd minute, ignited Southampton's comeback with a stunning free-kick. Manning's curling effort sailed over the Wrexham wall and into the top corner, leaving Ward with no chance.

With the score now level at 1-1, Southampton pressed for a winner. In the sixth minute of added time, Manning again proved instrumental, delivering a cross from the left that found captain Jack Stephens at the back post. Stephens finished emphatically, lashing the ball off the crossbar and into the net, sending St. Mary's into a frenzy.

The late turnaround secured a dramatic 2-1 victory for Southampton, marking a memorable start to Will Still's tenure. For Wrexham, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow after a strong performance that had them on the cusp of a historic win. The match was the first league meeting between the two clubs in 65 years. Despite the loss, Wrexham's performance suggested they would be a competitive force in the Championship.