Colwill and Kpakio Lead Cardiff Comeback in League One Opener
Cardiff City kicked off their League One campaign—and a new chapter under head coach Brian Barry-Murphy—with a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Peterborough United, and honestly, it felt like a fresh start in more ways than one.
It had been over two decades since Cardiff last played in the third tier of English football, so there was plenty of anticipation—and pressure—around this match. And early on, it looked like the day might turn sour. Despite a bright and aggressive start from Cardiff, they went behind in the first half. Peterborough’s Bradley Ihionvien put the visitors ahead from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute after a controversial foul call against defender Will Fish. It looked like he got the ball, but the ref didn’t see it that way.
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But Cardiff weren’t about to let that define their day. Just three minutes into the second half, Rubin Colwill—who captained the side in Calum Chambers’ absence—stepped up with a moment of brilliance. He fired in a 20-yard free-kick that dipped beautifully over the wall and into the net, a goal that had shades of Ronaldo or Drogba about it. It wasn’t just a goal—it was a statement.
Not long after, it was 18-year-old Ronan Kpakio’s turn to shine. The young right-back surged forward and struck a stunning first-time finish that clipped the underside of the bar on its way in. The roar inside Cardiff City Stadium said it all—19,000 fans rising to celebrate a teenager making his mark in a big way.
What stood out most was the energy and style Cardiff played with. Barry-Murphy has clearly brought in a more attack-minded, high-pressing philosophy. The Bluebirds were aggressive without the ball and creative with it, carving out chances left and right. The finishing wasn’t always clinical—Colwill, Tanner, and Salech all had opportunities go begging—but the intent was there.
And while the scoreline could’ve been more convincing, the vibe around the stadium was optimistic. After years of struggle and last season’s relegation from the Championship, this was the kind of performance fans had been craving. There’s still work to do, of course, but the signs are promising.
Next up for Cardiff is a trip to Port Vale on August 7, while Peterborough will look to bounce back at home to Luton Town. But for now, Cardiff can enjoy a well-earned win—and perhaps even dare to hope that this season might just be something special.
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