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26 February 2025

Fulham Boost European Hopes With 2-1 Win Over Wolves

The victory at Molineux strengthens Fulham's position for European football as they climb the Premier League table.

Fulham secured a significant 2-1 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux Stadium on February 25, 2025, putting them firmly within reach of European qualification as their league campaign continues to gain momentum.

The visitors made headlines right from the start, with Ryan Sessegnon scoring just 58 seconds after kickoff. After being played through by Andreas Pereira, Sessegnon unleashed a low shot inside the far post, marking his return with his first goal since October 2022.

Despite the shaky start, Wolves quickly rallied. The home side dominated possession and applied pressure before finding their equalizer through Joao Gomes. Gomes capitalized on a defensive lapse from Fulham, connecting with a cross from Jean-Ricner Bellegarde. He took no time to blast the ball past goalkeeper Bernd Leno, leveling the match at 1-1 by the 18th minute.

Both teams created opportunities as the first half progressed. Wolves looked to take control, with Matheus Cunha and Gomes testing Leno with several attempts. Despite their pressure, the score remained level as they went to the break.

The momentum shifted back to Fulham right after the restart. Just 63 seconds after the second half began, Rodriguez Muniz restored Fulham's lead with a well-placed chip over Wolves' keeper Jose Sa, who had strayed off his line following Adama Traore’s assist.

Wolves struggled to find their rhythm after conceding again, leading manager Vítor Pereira to rethink his strategy, replacing Jean-Ricner Bellegarde with striker Jorgen Strand Larsen. Despite increased possession and pressure, they fell short of breaking down the resolute Fulham defense.

Fulham's victory not only secured three points but marked their first Premier League win at Molineux since 1985. Post-match, the significance of the win was emphasized, as it positioned Fulham ninth on the league table with 42 points—just four points shy of the coveted top four spots and two points behind fifth-placed Manchester City.

This performance places Fulham well within the mix for European competition next season, highlighting their strong run of form with three wins from their last four league games. Meanwhile, Wolves remained 17th, continuing to loom just above the relegation zone, emphasizing the need for points as they aim to avoid the drop.

The match underscored the contrasting fortunes of both clubs; Fulham is eyeing up European football, energized by young talents like Sessegnon and Muniz, whilst Wolves are left grappling for answers as they prepare for upcoming fixtures against Bournemouth and other relegation rivals.

Both teams move forward with their respective goals as the Premier League season intensifies, with Fulham hosting Manchester United next and hoping to replicate their newfound form.