Stoke City secured a 2-1 home win over Oxford United in the English Football League Championship on February 26, 2026. In a closely fought contest at the bet365 Stadium, Stoke came from behind to claim all three points. Oxford United started brightly and took a deserved lead in the first half with a well-worked team goal. Stoke responded with increased intensity after the break, equalizing through a powerful header from a corner. The winner arrived late in the game, as Stoke capitalized on a defensive mistake, with a forward slotting home to complete the turnaround. The victory provided a vital boost for Stoke City in their quest to move away from the relegation zone, showing great resilience. For Oxford, it was a case of so near yet so far, as they failed to hold onto a lead against determined opposition. The Stoke manager praised his team's second-half spirit, and the Oxford coach was left to rue missed opportunities to extend their lead when on top.