Wolves secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Molineux, a result that lifts them out of the relegation zone and adds momentum to their survival bid.
Matheus Cunha was the hero, delivering a stunning late goal to seal the win in a tense West Midlands derby.
The match began with Wolves showing greater urgency and intent. Their counter-attacking prowess repeatedly unsettled a jaded Villa side, and the hosts deservedly led 1-0 at half-time.
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde broke the deadlock with a composed finish following a swift break, capitalising on Villa’s defensive disarray.
Villa manager Unai Emery responded with a bold move at the break, making four substitutions in an attempt to inject life into his side. Despite fresh legs and tactical adjustments, Villa struggled to penetrate Wolves’ stubborn defence.
The visitors’ best chances came in the latter stages, with Donyell Malen forcing sharp saves from Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa.
THREE POINTS. pic.twitter.com/njUpjitFUq
— Wolves (@Wolves) February 1, 2025
As Villa pressed desperately for an equaliser, Wolves remained resilient, absorbing pressure and looking dangerous on the counter.
The defining moment arrived deep into stoppage time. Ezri Konsa’s failed clearance presented Cunha with an opportunity.
The Brazilian embarked on a determined, stop-start run that seemed to have reached a dead end.
However, he created just enough space to unleash a thunderous strike, sending the ball past Emiliano Martinez and into the bottom-left corner.
Cunha received a yellow card shortly after, a small blemish on an otherwise stellar performance. Wolves navigated the final moments with tactical nous, using substitutions to disrupt Villa’s rhythm and manage the clock effectively.
This victory marks Wolves’ third consecutive home win over Villa and provides a significant boost in their battle against relegation.
For Villa, the defeat dents their top-four aspirations.
