Second tier football is back at The Valley on Saturday as newly promoted Charlton Athletic host Watford in the opening round of the 2025/26 EFL Championship (12:30 BST, live on Sky Sports+).
Dave James gives his view on how to watch the game today.
How to watch: Charlton Athletic vs Watford will be available to watch live on Sky Sports+ Football in the UK. Please note this is an early kick off and a subscription is required.
When to watch: The lunchtime Championship matcht between Charlton and Watford will take place at The Valley Stadium on Saturday August 9th, 2025, with a kick off time at 12:30 PM BST.
You can watch Charlton Athletic vs Watford LIVE in play with Bet365 here
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Charlton return to the Championship after a five year absence, buoyed by Macaulay Gillesphey’s dramatic winner in the League One play off final against Leyton Orient in May.
Under manager Nathan Jones, the Addicks appear well prepared for the step up, having won four of six friendlies, including dominant 3-0 victories over Southend and Wealdstone.
Confidence is high in South London, particularly given Charlton’s formidable home form with 14 wins in their last 16 competitive matches at The Valley.
Watford head into the new season under a cloud of uncertainty.
After finishing 14th last term and enduring a poor away record with just 17 points from 23 road games, the Hornets struggled to find any consistency.
They ended last season with five consecutive away defeats and their recent friendlies offered little in the way of improvement, with just one win from three matches.
With no major additions or tactical shifts, Watford look vulnerable, particularly on the road. Charlton, full of belief and with strong home momentum, will see this as a golden opportunity to begin their Championship return with three points.
