Wolverhampton Wanderers hosted Southampton in a game that saw the home team come out on top with a 2-0 victory. The match was not one of overwhelming dominance, as Wolves created an expected goals (xG) total of 0.9 compared to Southampton’s 0.7. This low xG reflects a game where both defenses largely contained each other, and clear-cut chances were at a premium.

Key Stats Breakdown

Wolves recorded only nine shots, with four on target, but managed to make their opportunities count, scoring twice with a clinical edge. Southampton struggled more in front of goal, accumulating eight shots but failing to register any on target, resulting in an xG of just 0.71. This inability to challenge the Wolves’ goalkeeper, José Sá, proved costly.

Momentum Analysis

The momentum map shows a balanced game in terms of possession shifts, but Wolves capitalized during key moments early in each half. Pablo Sarabia’s second-minute strike, with an xG of 0.36, set the tone, and Matheus Cunha added to the lead in the 51st minute. Despite Southampton having decent spells of possession, they couldn’t convert it into meaningful chances, reflected in the low xG values over the course of the game.

Shots on Goal

Wolves’ efficiency was the difference, as their shot map shows that while they didn’t pepper the goal, they were accurate with their attempts.

Southampton, on the other hand, had eight shots but lacked precision, failing to put any on target, a crucial factor in their defeat.

Possession and Passing Dynamics

Southampton dominated possession with 67% of the ball, but their pass map highlights a pattern of sideways and backward passes, often circulating in non-threatening areas. Players like Mateus Fernandes and Adam Lallana were active in midfield but struggled to break down Wolves’ defense.

Wolves, in contrast, adopted a more direct style. Their pass map indicates a quicker transition through players like João Gomes and Matheus Cunha, who linked well to push the ball forward when opportunities arose.