In a story that feels straight out of a movie script, Wrexham AFC has finally ended its 15-year exile from the English Football League. The National League title was secured in dramatic fashion with a 3-1 victory over Boreham Wood, witnessed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who have transformed the club’s fortunes since their takeover in 2020.
The atmosphere at the Racecourse Ground was electric, a mix of nerves, hope, and sheer passion. For the fans, this was more than a match—it was the culmination of years of resilience, community spirit, and belief. And for the new owners, it was validation of their ambitious project.
The Build-Up: More Than Just a Game
Wrexham’s journey under Reynolds and McElhenney has been nothing short of extraordinary. From a club struggling in the fifth tier to becoming a global sensation, their story has captured hearts far beyond Wales. The Baji live team entered the match knowing that a win would seal promotion, regardless of other results. The pressure was immense, but so was the support.
Boreham Wood, still fighting for a playoff spot, were never going to make it easy. They arrived with a plan to disrupt the narrative, and for a brief moment, it seemed they might succeed.
Early Drama and a Shock Opener
The match began in the worst possible way for the home side. Just 43 seconds after kickoff, Lee Ndlovu capitalized on a defensive lapse to put Boreham Wood ahead. The stadium fell into a stunned silence. Was the dream about to unravel?
But this Wrexham team has shown character all season. Instead of panicking, they regrouped, controlled possession, and pushed for an equalizer. The response was swift and determined.
Elliot Lee’s header brought Wrexham level, settling nerves and shifting momentum.
Elliot Lee, a key figure in midfield, rose to the occasion with a well-placed header to make it 1-1. The goal lifted the entire stadium and set the stage for a second-half masterclass.
Mullin Magic: The Superstar Delivers
If there’s one player who embodies Wrexham’s rise, it’s Paul Mullin. The striker has been sensational all season, and when his team needed him most, he delivered. Two superb second-half strikes—taking his tally to 46 goals for the campaign—sealed the victory and the title.
His first was a typical poacher’s finish, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the box. The second was a moment of pure quality, a curled effort that left the goalkeeper with no chance. Boreham Wood manager Luke Garrard summed it up perfectly: “We’ve been Mullined.”
Paul Mullin’s brilliance in front of goal has been central to Wrexham’s success.
Hollywood’s Emotional Reaction
For Reynolds and McElhenney, the experience was overwhelming. Both actors were visibly emotional at full-time, embracing each other and joining the players on the pitch for the celebrations.
In a post-match interview, Reynolds struggled to find the words:
“I’m not sure I can process what happened. One thing running through my head is that people said, ‘Why Wrexham?’ This is exactly why. What’s happening right now is why.”
McElhenney added:
“This is a moment of catharsis for the fans. To be welcomed into this community has been the honor of my life.”
The Hollywood owners have been hands-on throughout the journey, earning respect from fans and players alike.
A-List Support and Local Connections
Adding to the glitz and glamour was actor Paul Rudd, who was spotted in local pubs with fans before the match. His presence highlighted the global appeal Wrexham has gained since the takeover. Rudd watched from the directors’ box, cheering every tackle and goal like a lifelong supporter.
Paul Rudd’s involvement shows how Wrexham has transcended football to become a cultural phenomenon.
Ben Foster, the veteran goalkeeper whose heroics earlier in the season kept Wrexham’s promotion hopes alive, also played a key role. After the match, Reynolds even interrupted Foster’s press conference to demand his jersey—a moment that went viral on social media.
The Bigger Picture: What Promotion Means
Promotion back to League Two is more than just a sporting achievement. It represents a new beginning for a historic club. Wrexham is the third-oldest football club in the world, and its return to the EFL is a testament to the power of investment, vision, and community.
The Baji live project has also benefited from the critically acclaimed documentary Welcome to Wrexham, which has introduced the club to audiences worldwide. The exposure has brought commercial opportunities, international tours, and a renewed sense of pride.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
While promotion is a massive milestone, the hard work is just beginning. League Two will present new challenges, with more professional teams and higher expectations. However, with the backing of Reynolds and McElhenney, a passionate fanbase, and a talented squad, Wrexham is well-placed to compete.
The club has already announced a friendly against Manchester United in San Diego this summer—another sign of its growing profile.
Wrexham’s Hollywood Ending: A 15-Year Exile Ends in Emotional Promotion Celebrations
Wrexham’s promotion is a reminder of why we love football—it’s about dreams, identity, and belonging. For the fans who stood by the club through relegation and financial struggles, this moment is priceless. For the owners, it’s proof that with the right approach, anything is possible.
What did you think of Wrexham’s promotion journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow Baji live for more in-depth coverage of football’s most inspiring stories.
