SOUTHAMPTON, England (Feb. 21, 2026) (Interstat) — Southampton and Charlton Athletic opened their Championship seasons with a 1-1 draw Saturday at St Mary’s Stadium.

Southampton’s Ross Stewart opened the scoring in the 48th minute. Charlton substitute Sonny Carey leveled the match in the 67th, assisted by Southampton defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Carey also assisted Stewart’s earlier goal.

The result defied pre-match projections that heavily favored Southampton. Three yellow cards were issued late in the physical contest. Both clubs begin the campaign with a draw in all competitions.