It was a day marked by farewells and final impressions at Molineux as Wolves and Brentford played out an entertaining 1-1 draw. Matheus Cunha potentially made his last appearance in gold, while Brentford saw their slim hopes of European football fade entirely. Despite the lack of tangible stakes, both sides ensured that fans were treated to a spirited finale to the season.
Wolves supporters turned out in good spirits, celebrating a season that saw them comfortably avoid relegation under the guidance of Vitor Pereira. The Portuguese manager arrived in December with the team struggling, but his steady leadership and shrewd signings helped turn the tide. One of those signings, Marshall Munetsi, proved decisive on the day, scoring the equaliser in what has been an increasingly attack-minded role for the player since his January arrival.
The game began with a moment of defensive uncertainty from Rayan Aït-Nouri, who turned back toward his own goal after receiving a pass under little pressure. His hesitation allowed Brentford to pounce, and they capitalized on the error. Bryan Mbeumo, always lively in attack, was on hand to tap in the opener after a slick Brentford move exploited Wolves’ disorganized defence. It was Mbeumo’s 20th goal of the season – a remarkable milestone that underscores his importance to Brentford’s attack.
Wolves, however, responded positively. At the heart of their forward thrusts was Matheus Cunha, who seemed determined to leave a lasting impression. The Brazilian forward produced several moments of skill and flair, his quick feet and intelligent movement troubling Brentford throughout the first half. Despite his efforts, he was unable to find the back of the net, twice drawing saves from Mark Flekken with powerful efforts. With rumours linking him to a move to Manchester United, Cunha’s performance suggested he will be missed if he does depart.
The home fans serenaded him with a defiant chant that took aim at his potential suitors, a gesture of affection and perhaps a plea for him to stay. But the overall tone at Molineux was one of celebration and relief, as Wolves concluded the campaign safely in mid-table – a far cry from the relegation battle that threatened to define their season.
As the second half wore on, the game appeared to be drifting toward a Brentford win until Munetsi reignited the contest. In a route one passage of play, Emmanuel Agbadou launched a long goal-kick, which Jørgen Strand Larsen flicked on. Munetsi, surging forward from midfield, met the bouncing ball with a thunderous strike that gave Flekken no chance. It was a moment that exemplified his growing confidence and versatility under Pereira’s management.
The match wound down without further drama, though both teams continued to press in search of a winner. Brentford’s 10th-place finish speaks to their ongoing development as a Premier League side, but there will be some disappointment at missing out on European competition after flirting with it for much of the season.
Both clubs now face pivotal summers. Wolves must decide how to replace Cunha, should he leave, and whether Pereira will be backed in the transfer market to continue reshaping the squad. Brentford, meanwhile, will be looking to maintain their upward momentum while managing the possible departures of key players.
In the end, the draw felt fitting a reflective result for two teams with solid foundations but ambitions for more.
