A resolute Wolverhampton Wanderers side left the Vitality Stadium with all three points after a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth in Matchweek 26. Matheus Cunha’s 35th-minute strike proved to be the decisive moment in a match where Wolves’ superior attacking quality edged them past the Cherries.

Wolves Take Their Chance, Bournemouth Fail to Respond

Bournemouth dominated possession with 51%, but it was Wolves who made their moments count. Despite the home side taking 9 shots, they failed to register a single goal. Wolves, on the other hand, were much more efficient in the final third, generating an xG of 1.58 from 13 shots, while Bournemouth could only muster 0.93 xG.

Bournemouth: 9 shots | xG: 0.93 | 0 goals

Wolves: 13 shots | xG: 1.58 | 1 goal

Bournemouth lacked a cutting edge, while Wolves’ clinical moment was enough to decide the game.

Match Momentum: Wolves Strike First, Bournemouth Left Chasing

The xG progression highlights how both teams had their spells of pressure, but it was Wolves who capitalized in the first half. Cunha’s goal in the 35th minute was a well-worked effort, coming at a time when Wolves were growing into the game. Bournemouth’s second-half surge lacked end product, with zero shots on target in the final 30 minutes. While Bournemouth had spells of control, their lack of cutting edge in front of goal ultimately cost them.

Shot Analysis: Wolves Clinical, Bournemouth Wasteful

Looking at the shot maps, the contrast between the teams is clear:

Bournemouth:9 shots, 3 on target, 0 goals. Their xG of 0.93 suggests they had half-chances, but they couldn’t find the breakthrough.

Wolves:13 shots, 5 on target, 1 goal. They created the better opportunities and took one when it mattered.

Wolves’ higher shot quality (1.58 xG) was a major factor in their win.

Possession & Passing: Wolves More Efficient in Build-Up

The pass maps show a clear tactical battle:

Bournemouth: Controlled possession with Kluivert, Christie, and Tavernier linking up well. However, the final pass was missing.

Wolves: More direct in transition, using Cunha, Semedo, and Aït-Nouri to drive forward. Their quick ball movement allowed them to create higher-quality chances.

Despite Bournemouth’s possession advantage (51%), Wolves’ progressive play in transition was more effective.

Bournemouth will be frustrated after dominating the ball but failing to capitalize on their chances. Wolves, meanwhile, showed resilience, defensive solidity, and clinical finishing to grind out a vital three points.