Wolves secured a decisive 2-0 victory over the Aston Villa in Molineux, a result that lifts them out of the relegation zone and increases its range of survival.
Matheus Cunha was the hero and gave a breathtaking late goal to seal the victory in a tense West Midland’s derby.
The match began with wolves that showed greater urgency and intentions. Their counterattack classes repeatedly repeated a dull Villa team, and the hosts rightly led 1-0 at half-time.
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde broke on the defensive after a quick break with a composed finish.
The Villa Manager Unai Emery reacted with a brave step during the break and took four substitutions to give his side to life. Despite fresh legs and tactical adjustments, the villa tried to penetrate the stubborn defense of wolves.
The best chances of visitors came in the last phases, with Donyell painting sharp parades by goalkeeper Jose Sa from Wölfen.
Three points. pic.twitter.com/njupjitfuq
– Wolves (@wolves) February 1, 2025
When the villa pressed desperately to compensate, the wolves remained resilient, absorbed pressure and looked dangerous on the counter.
The crucial moment came deep into added time. Ezri Konsa’s failed release presented Cunha a chance.
The Brazilian began a determined stop start run that seemed to have reached a dead end.
However, he created just enough space to unleash a thundering strike and past the ball past Emiliano Martinez and sent past the lower left corner.
Shortly afterwards, Cunha received a yellow card, a small flaw with an otherwise outstanding performance. Wolves navigated the last moments with tactical nous and used substitutions to disturb the rhythm of villa and effectively manage the clock.
This victory is the third home win of the wolves against the villa and ensures a significant fight against relegation.
For the villa, the defeat occurs its top four efforts.
