AFC Wimbledon is an English professional football club based in Wimbledon, London. Founded in 2002, the club has a unique and inspiring story as it was established by supporters of the original Wimbledon FC, which controversially relocated to Milton Keynes in 2003 and became Milton Keynes Dons (MK Dons). AFC Wimbledon was created as a phoenix club and quickly rose through the football pyramid to regain its place in the English Football League.
History and Achievements
AFC Wimbledon began in 2002 in the Combined Counties League, the ninth tier of English football. Over the next decade, the club achieved a remarkable series of promotions, reaching the Football League Two (fourth tier) in 2011 after winning the Conference National Play-off Final.
The club’s promotion to League One (third tier) in 2016 was another significant milestone, marking a return to a level comparable to where Wimbledon FC competed before its controversial relocation.
While AFC Wimbledon hasn’t won major national trophies, its rise through the leagues is a testament to the determination and passion of its supporters. A key moment came in 2019, when the club defeated rivals MK Dons in League One, symbolizing the resilience of its identity.
Key Players and Coaches
AFC Wimbledon’s journey has been shaped by many important figures:
- Danny Kedwell, the club’s top scorer during its rise through the lower leagues, was pivotal in securing promotion to the Football League in 2011.
- Joe Pigott, a key forward in recent seasons, was instrumental in keeping the team competitive in League One.
- On the coaching side, Neal Ardley is one of the club’s most influential managers, leading AFC Wimbledon to their League One promotion in 2016.
Best Domestic and International Performances
Domestic: AFC Wimbledon’s best league finish came in League One, where they managed to avoid relegation for several seasons, with their highest finish being 15th. The club also reached the Fifth Round of the FA Cup in 2018–19, defeating Premier League side West Ham United 4–2 in a historic upset.
International: AFC Wimbledon has not participated in European competitions, as the focus has been on re-establishing themselves within the English football pyramid.
Current Status
AFC Wimbledon was relegated to League Two in 2022 after struggling in League One. The team is now competing in League Two, aiming to rebuild and challenge for promotion. The club remains a community-driven organization, with its fans holding significant ownership and decision-making power.
Stadium
AFC Wimbledon plays its home matches at the Plough Lane Stadium, which officially opened in 2020. The modern stadium, located close to the site of the original Plough Lane, has a capacity of around 9,215 and symbolizes the club’s return to its roots in Wimbledon. It was a long-held dream of supporters to bring the club back to its spiritual home, and the stadium represents a major step forward for AFC Wimbledon.
AFC Wimbledon’s story is one of resilience, passion, and fan empowerment. From their humble beginnings in non-league football to their rise to the English Football League, the club has shown what a united community can achieve. With its new stadium at Plough Lane and a loyal fanbase, AFC Wimbledon continues to strive for success and to honor the legacy of the original Wimbledon FC.
pic: transfermarkt
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