Blackburn Rovers booked their place in the second round of the Carabao Cup with a 2-1 comeback win over Burton Albion on Saturday. Super Eagles right-back Ryan Alebiosu played a key role by providing the assist for Jayden Fevrier's late winner.
Alebiosu started the game at right-back as Tony Mowbray began his second spell in charge of Blackburn with a competitive victory. Nigerian forward Dapo Afolayan also started for Rovers before being replaced by Fevrier in the closing stages.
Burton took the lead in the 14th minute through Zac Scutt. The midfielder reacted quickest after Blackburn goalkeeper's save from Kyran Lofthouse's effort fell into his path, allowing him to finish calmly and put the League One side ahead.
Alebiosu almost helped Blackburn equalise in the 25th minute. His looping delivery picked out Afolayan inside the penalty area, but the Nigerian forward's diving header narrowly missed the target.
Blackburn controlled much of the game after the interval and eventually found the breakthrough in the 81st minute. Substitute Andri Gudjohnsen met Todd Cantwell's cutback from close range to bring Rovers level.
The visitors then completed the turnaround two minutes from full time. Alebiosu supplied the final pass for Fevrier, who curled an excellent finish beyond the Burton goalkeeper to send Blackburn into the next round.
The result reflected Blackburn's attacking pressure. Rovers enjoyed 63 per cent possession and registered 25 attempts compared with Burton's 15, while both sides managed seven shots on target.
Alebiosu's contribution continues his development at Ewood Park. The Nigeria international joined Blackburn in 2025 after spells with Arsenal, Crewe Alexandra, Kilmarnock, Kortrijk and St Mirren, and has established himself as a regular option at right-back.
The assist also adds to his reputation as an attacking full-back. He recorded five assists for Blackburn during the 2025/26 campaign, showing his ability to contribute in the final third as well as defensively.
Blackburn will now turn their attention to the Championship, where they are scheduled to open their league campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers next Friday. The Carabao Cup comeback gives Mowbray a winning start as he prepares his squad for the demands of the new season.
ADD A COMMENT :