Reading claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Wigan Athletic on October 17, 2026, keeping their League One push alive with a late goal that sealed all three points.

What happened in the 90th minute?

Joel Pereira’s side held firm until the 87th minute, when substitute Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan pounced to fire home the winner. The strike came after a swift counterattack, with Ehibhatiomhan slotting past Wigan’s keeper from close range. Wigan, who had dominated possession for long spells, failed to convert their chances, leaving Reading to escape with all three points.

How did Reading’s form hold up?

Reading arrived at the DW Stadium on the back of a mixed spell, having lost their last two away games before this clash. The win marked their first clean sheet in five matches, a rare bright spot in a campaign where defensive lapses have cost them dearly. Pereira’s backline, marshalled by captain Andy Yiadom, stood firm under sustained pressure, particularly in the second half.

Why Wigan’s missed chances stung

Wigan, priced at 5/2 pre-match, had 63% possession but lacked cutting edge in front of goal. Lewis Wing and Sam Tickle both forced saves from Reading’s keeper, while Joe Taylor’s header in the 72nd minute rattled the crossbar. The hosts’ inability to finish their dominance left them ruing a missed opportunity to climb into the play-off places.

What’s next for Reading?

The Royals now sit mid-table, their next test coming against Bolton Wanderers on October 24. A run of winnable fixtures follows, but Pereira’s men must tighten up at the back if they’re to push for a top-half finish. The late winner against Wigan offers a glimmer of hope, yet the real work lies ahead in the coming weeks.