His First Goal of the Season and a Victory for Stoke City
• Ben Gibson is enjoying a strong start with The Potters.
• Three crucial points earned in the EFL Championship.
By Oscar Cortes
Stoke City’s captain, Ben Gibson, played a vital role in his team’s defense during this recent EFL Championship match. Narcís Pelach has entrusted him with the captain’s armband, giving Gibson full responsibility to lead from the back and organize his teammates as the game progresses.
Gibson’s impact in this match was not limited to his defensive duties; he also made a key contribution to the scoreline by netting the decisive goal against Derby County. His experience and leadership make him an ideal figure for Pelach's Stoke City squad.
READ MORE: Stoke City 2-1 Derby County | Crucial Three Points for The Potters
Ben Gibson Scores His First Goal of the Season
Ben Gibson, who joined Stoke City this season, has quickly adapted to his new team. The 21-year-old center-back, formerly of NWC, has already played 13 league games, amassing over 1,000 minutes in the EFL Championship.
He has been instrumental in Stoke’s defense, and his recent performance against Derby County in matchday 13 highlighted his value. In that game, Gibson scored his first goal of the season, a vital strike that secured a 2-1 win for Stoke City. At the 82nd minute, he capitalized on a superb assist from Bae Jun-Ho, sealing the three points in what is likely one of Stoke’s most important goals thus far in the 2024-2025 season.
Gibson’s defensive stats were equally impressive. Narcís Pelach once again trusted him as captain and starter, and he played all 90 minutes with solid defensive contributions, including two clearances and two blocked shots to deny Derby County’s advances.
Out of three duels, Gibson won two, showcasing his strength and reliability in critical moments. His skill on the ball also contributes to Stoke’s build-up play; he led the team from the back, registering 71 touches and completing 83% of his passes (52 out of 63 attempted). Gibson has established himself as a central figure for Stoke City, and Pelach’s trust in his abilities as captain has been well justified so far.