Manchester United Fall Short at Old Trafford as Wolves Steal the Show in Dramatic 3-2 Thriller
Written by SpringNewsNG Media Limited | April 20, 2025
Despite a goalless first half, the game exploded into life after the break, with both sides trading blows in a high-octane contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
First Half: Tactical Battle Ends in Stalemate
The first 45 minutes saw both teams locked in a tactical stalemate, with Manchester United dominating possession but failing to break through Wolves’ disciplined defensive setup. Erik ten Hag’s side struggled to create clear-cut chances, while Wolves remained organized, patiently waiting to strike on the counter.
United’s best opportunity came in the 35th minute, when Rasmus Højlund was denied by a brilliant one-handed save from Wolves’ keeper José Sá. Wolves’ Andre picked up a booking in the 29th minute for a reckless challenge on Alejandro Garnacho, setting the tone for what would become a heated encounter.
Second Half: Goals Galore
The deadlock was finally broken in the 56th minute when Lecce loanee Patrick Dorgu, making his debut for United, rifled home a well-placed shot from the edge of the area to put the home side ahead 1-0.
But Wolves roared back with purpose. Moroccan full-back Rayan Aït-Nouri equalized in the 48th minute, moments before Dorgu’s strike, in a moment of confusion as VAR took time to confirm the legitimacy of both goals.
Christian Eriksen restored United’s lead in the 76th minute with a curling effort that nestled into the bottom corner, sending the Stretford End into celebration. However, their joy was short-lived.
Just a minute later, Spanish playmaker Pablo Sarabia responded instantly for Wolves, firing a low shot past Onana in the 77th minute to level the score at 2-2.
Wolves Seize the Moment
With the match hanging in the balance, Sarabia struck again in the 80th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from United to complete a stunning turnaround and seal all three points for Wolves.
Despite late efforts by Bruno Fernandes and substitute Antony to force an equalizer, Wolves held firm, securing their first win at Old Trafford since 2022.
Final Score: Manchester United 2-3 Wolves
- Goals:
- Man Utd: Dorgu (56′), Eriksen (76′)
- Wolves: Aït-Nouri (48′), Sarabia (77′, 80′)
- Yellow Cards:
- Wolves: Andre (29′)
What This Means
The result deals a significant blow to Manchester United’s push for a top-four finish, while Wolves climb further up the mid-table, continuing their impressive late-season form under manager Gary O’Neil.
United boss Erik ten Hag will face fresh questions about his team’s consistency and defensive fragility, especially with crucial fixtures looming in both domestic and European competitions.
Match Stats Highlights (Premier League – April 20, 2025):
- Possession: Man Utd 61% – 39% Wolves
- Shots on Target: Man Utd 6 – 5 Wolves
- Corners: Man Utd 7 – 3 Wolves
- Fouls: Man Utd 10 – 13 Wolves
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