Newcastle United fans finally had reason to celebrate as their team clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at St James’ Park on September 13, 2025. After a frustrating start to the Premier League season, Eddie Howe’s side delivered the performance supporters had been yearning for, with new signing Nick Woltemade stealing the headlines in his debut appearance.
The anticipation was palpable before kickoff. Newcastle, still searching for their first win of the campaign, faced a Wolves side languishing at the bottom of the table and desperate to avoid a fourth consecutive defeat. With injuries and suspensions forcing Howe’s hand, the Magpies’ lineup featured a blend of returning stars and fresh faces. Joelinton, back from injury, was thrust into the starting XI, while club-record signing Nick Woltemade was handed his first start up front. Absent were Jacob Ramsey and Yoane Wissa, both sidelined by injuries, and Anthony Gordon, serving a suspension.
The match began at a frenetic pace. Wolverhampton came out swinging, determined to seize an early advantage. Hodrigu’s shot inside the opening minute forced Nick Pope into action, setting the tone for a contest brimming with intensity. Wolves’ “Bull” Hwang Hee-chan was a constant menace, unleashing a sharp volley from a corner and delivering dangerous crosses. Yet, Newcastle’s defense, marshaled by the ever-reliable Nick Pope and the experienced Fabian Schar, held firm.
“Nick Pope kept his third clean sheet in four Premier League games this season,” reported one source, and his early heroics were crucial in keeping Newcastle’s hopes alive. Pope’s quick reflexes denied Wolves on more than one occasion, with a particularly impressive save from Hwang Hee-chan’s volley drawing applause from the stands.
As the Magpies weathered the initial Wolves storm, they began to assert themselves. Tino Livramento, now the team’s go-to long throw specialist, launched an attack that nearly paid dividends. In the 13th minute, Jacob Murphy’s effort was spectacularly saved by Wolves keeper Sam Johnstone, showcasing the end-to-end nature of the first half.
The breakthrough arrived just before the half-hour mark. Jacob Murphy, lively and industrious on the right, whipped in a pinpoint cross. Rising above the Wolves defense, Nick Woltemade powered a sensational header into the net—his debut goal in Newcastle colors. The crowd erupted. “Voltemade, a transfer player, scored his debut goal before his Premier League debut, becoming a blessing,” wrote one report, capturing the significance of the moment. The German striker’s hard work and physical presence up front had already given Newcastle a new dimension, and his goal was a just reward.
Wolves struggled to respond. Hwang Hee-chan continued to probe, delivering an inch-perfect cross in the 18th minute only for Schar to intervene with a goal-saving tackle. Newcastle had their own chances to extend the lead, with Sandro Tonali’s curling effort ricocheting off the post just before halftime. Murphy, too, came close, his shot whistling past the upright in the 43rd minute. Harvey Barnes, celebrating the birth of his daughter earlier in the week, found opportunities hard to come by and endured a frustrating evening, summed up by a stumble in the box that drew groans from the home support.
The second half saw a shift in tempo. Newcastle, perhaps mindful of their upcoming Champions League clash with Barcelona, managed the game with composure. Wolves, meanwhile, pressed for an equalizer, introducing Munech and Belgard in a bid to bolster their attack. But Newcastle’s defense, anchored by Dan Burn and Fabian Schar, proved impenetrable. “Dan Burn was menacing as ever for the Magpies. Whether it was putting in a last-ditch challenge or frustrating Wolves defenders during a set piece, Burn was there to try and make a difference,” noted one observer.
Midfield maestros Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes were instrumental in controlling proceedings. Tonali, fresh off a standout international performance, “put in a simply magical performance at St James’ Park, playing a big part in proceedings on either side of the pitch.” Guimaraes, undeterred by a recent knock and a grueling international schedule, delivered a brave and committed display, helping Newcastle maintain their slender lead.
Joelinton’s return from injury added steel to the midfield, though his night ended after just over an hour, with the St James’ Park faithful offering a warm ovation as he made way for Joe Willock. Willock and William Osula, both introduced as substitutes, brought fresh legs but were unable to add to Newcastle’s tally. Anthony Elanga, another late substitute, had little time to influence proceedings.
As the clock ticked down, Wolves grew increasingly desperate. Time and again, their attacks were repelled by Newcastle’s disciplined back line and the commanding presence of Nick Pope. The final whistle brought relief and jubilation in equal measure—Newcastle had finally secured their first win of the season, while Wolves were left to ponder a fourth straight defeat, remaining the only team in the league without a point.
Player ratings reflected Newcastle’s collective effort. Nick Pope (8) was outstanding in goal, Livramento (8) impressed both defensively and going forward, and Murphy (8) provided the crucial assist. Tonali (8) and Guimaraes (8) controlled the midfield, while Woltemade (8.5) was the star of the show. Joelinton (7) looked assured on his return, and Burn (7) continued his consistent form. Harvey Barnes (6) struggled to make an impact, but the team’s overall performance was a major step forward.
Wolves, for their part, were left ruing missed opportunities. Hwang Hee-chan’s tireless efforts went unrewarded, and despite a spirited early showing, they could not find a way past Pope. Their search for a first point of the season continues, with pressure mounting on the squad to turn things around.
For Newcastle, this win could hardly have come at a better time. Not only does it lift them up the Premier League table, but it also injects much-needed confidence ahead of their marquee Champions League clash with Barcelona. With key players returning from injury and a new striker making an instant impact, the Magpies will hope this victory marks the start of a successful run.
As the St James’ Park faithful filed out into the Tyneside night, there was a renewed sense of optimism. Newcastle United are back on track—and with Barcelona looming, the timing couldn’t be better.
