Brighton maintained their push for a place in Europe next season with a convincing 2-0 victory over Wolves at Molineux on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The Seagulls showcased their determination and skill, with Danny Welbeck and Brajan Gruda scoring the crucial goals that secured all three points for the visitors.
Welbeck, who has been a key figure for Brighton this season, opened the scoring from the penalty spot just before half-time. The 34-year-old forward achieved a personal milestone by reaching 10 goals in a Premier League season for the first time since his debut with Manchester United in November 2008. His experience shone through as he confidently sent Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa the wrong way after Matheus Cunha fouled Mats Wieffer in the box.
As the match progressed, Brighton found themselves on the backfoot for much of the second half, with Wolves showing more attacking intent after making a triple substitution. Wolves manager Vitor Pereira's changes initially paid off as his team began to create more chances. However, it was Brighton who struck again late in the game when substitute Brajan Gruda scored his first goal for the club in the 85th minute. The 20-year-old, who joined from Mainz last summer, displayed composure as he delicately chipped the ball over Sa, doubling Brighton's lead and sealing the victory.
Despite the loss, Wolves had their moments, particularly in the first half, where they spurned several chances to take the lead. Matheus Cunha came closest to scoring for the home side, forcing a superb save from Brighton's goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen with a hooked shot. Pereira's side had enjoyed a strong run earlier in April, winning five consecutive matches, but this defeat marked their second consecutive loss without scoring, raising concerns about their form as the season draws to a close.
Brighton now sits in ninth place in the Premier League, level on points with Brentford just above them. With two league games remaining, the Seagulls are hopeful of securing a second European campaign, a feat that would be a remarkable achievement for the club. The upcoming match against champions Liverpool at the Amex Stadium on May 19 will be pivotal in determining their fate.
Brighton's head coach, Fabian Hurzeler, expressed optimism about his team's performance, stating, "We are hitting our stride at the right time. We have shown resilience and determination, and the players are responding well to the pressure." Hurzeler has played down the expectations surrounding European qualification but acknowledged that a win against Liverpool could change the narrative.
On the other hand, Wolves' Pereira lamented his team's lack of intelligence in their play, saying, "We played without intelligence, and that is something we need to address quickly. We had chances to score, but we failed to convert them. It's frustrating because we know we can do better." The coach's disappointment was palpable as his side now faces a tough road ahead, with matches against Crystal Palace and Brentford remaining.
As the Premier League season approaches its climax, both Brighton and Wolves have contrasting aspirations. Brighton is looking to solidify their spot in the top half of the table and potentially qualify for European competition, while Wolves aim to regain their form and finish the season on a high note.
With the excitement of the Premier League intensifying, fans will be eagerly watching how Brighton's European dream unfolds and whether Wolves can bounce back from their recent setbacks. The closing weeks of the season promise to be thrilling, with both teams having much to play for as they strive for their respective goals.
