The last game between Leyton Orient and Charlton was an instant classic, neutrals will hope for a repeat at Wembley 

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Wembley braces for potential play-off final drama as Charlton and Leyton Orient meet to battle for a spot in the Championship next season. 

Leyton Orient have enjoyed a solid season, securing a comfortable mid-table finish. Meanwhile the Addicks have experienced a more turbulent journey, with managerial changes and a late ‘freak’ winner sealing Charlton’s last final.

The anticipation surrounding this game is fuelled by the memory of their last meeting – a contest that exploded into unforgettable drama and Orient’s boss has already hinted at a ‘life-changing’ final.

With a desired promotion spot on the line, neutrals and fans alike are bracing for another exciting chapter in this London derby.

The last time Leyton Orient vs Charlton Athletic met

Last time the two sides met it was a thrilling 90 minutes. Charlton had been trailing to a Jordan Brown goal before Macauley Gillesphey and Kayne Ramsay both scored in added time to give the visitors a 2-1 victory.

Both Addicks’ goals came from corners sent in by substitute Alex Gilbert. The first, two minutes into the six of added time, eluded Orient goalkeeper Josh Keeley and Gillesphey nodded the ball home.

Four minutes later, Keeley was again beaten by a corner and Ramsay headed the ball into the net. The first period was dominated by two resilient defences, with real chances restricted to a minimum, but Brown put the hosts ahead on 52 minutes. 

A Darren Pratley shot was blocked and the ball fell to Brown whose shot from 20 yards drifted into the net. Two minutes later, Orient striker Charlie Kelman was denied by the visitors’ keeper Will Mannion and that miss was to prove costly for the home side.

The visitors applied pressure towards the end and were rewarded with a win allowing them to leapfrog Orient in the league table and occupy the final play-off place.

Key players to keep watch during League One play-off 

Both sides have standout players who will no doubt play a part during Sunday’s play-off. 

For Leyton Orient, the attacking skill of Charlie Kelman will be vital. His consistent goalscoring record throughout the season highlights his ability to find the back of the net, and his sharpness in front of goal will be vital against a likely resolute Charlton defence.

Complementing Kelman’s threat is midfielder Jamie Donley. Donley’s talent is evidenced by his 8 goals and 10 assists in the league this season. 

The Addicks will be looking to their leading scorer, Matty Godden, to provide the firepower at Wembley. Godden’s experience in the penalty area makes him a constant menace to rival defenders.

Holding Charlton’s midfield is Conor Coventry, his energy and composed distribution provide a vital platform for Charlton’s attacks and offer crucial protection to their defence.

These four players – Kelman and Donley for Leyton Orient, and Godden and Coventry for Charlton – possess the individual brilliance that could very well decide who triumphs under the Wembley arch.