By Abdul Kabia

Blackburn Rovers returned to winning ways in style, clinching a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Cardiff City at Ewood Park.

Beyond the crucial three points that lifted Rovers up to 13th in the standings, the fixture carried immense significance for Sierra Leonean football, as national team winger Augustus Kargbo made his long-awaited return to the pitch following an injury layoff.

Rovers seized control of the contest early, dictating the tempo and putting the Cardiff defence under constant pressure.

The breakthrough arrived in the 28th minute when Aron Guðjohnsen capitalised on some sharp attacking build-up to fire the hosts ahead.

Just ten minutes later, Todd Cantwell doubled the advantage. The midfielder capped off a brilliant team move with a composed finish in the 38th minute, sending Blackburn into the halftime break with a commanding 2-0 lead and leaving the Bluebirds searching for answers.

Cardiff City emerged from the interval with renewed intensity and pulled a goal back early in the second half when Callum Robinson found the net in the 53rd minute. The 2-1 scoreline set up a nervy, high-intensity battle as the visitors pushed hard for an equaliser.

For Sierra Leone supporters watching closely, the defining moment of the half came as Augustus Kargbo stepped back onto the pitch. Having shaken off his recent injury concerns, the dynamic winger injected fresh energy into the side, using his movement and work rate to help Rovers disrupt Cardiff’s momentum, manage the closing stages, and successfully secure all three points.

The victory provides a massive morale boost for Blackburn as they climb to 13th place, while Cardiff remains under pressure down in 21st.

More importantly for the Leone Stars, having Kargbo back and firing is major positive news ahead of upcoming international fixtures.