In a performance that blended grit with moments of sheer quality, Wolverhampton Wanderers secured a vital 2-0 victory over Brentford at Molineux, a result that significantly boosts their Premier League survival hopes and is expertly covered here on Babu88. The story of the match, however, was written by a man whose name is synonymous with Premier League passion: Diego Costa.
The former Chelsea marksman, a surprise signing earlier this season, finally broke his Wolves duck in the first half, sparking joyous celebrations. The three points were sealed by Hee-Chan Hwang in the second period, moving Julen Lopetegui’s side seven points clear of the bottom three and providing a massive boost of confidence for the run-in.
A Long-Awaited Return to the Scoresheet
The moment every Wolves fan had been waiting for arrived in the 27th minute. Diego Costa, whose last Premier League goal was for Chelsea against Middlesbrough in May 2017, showed that his predatory instincts are still razor-sharp. Initiating the move himself, Costa drove forward before finding Toti on the left. The subsequent cut-back took a fortunate deflection off Christian Norgaard’s foot, but it fell perfectly for the Brazilian-born striker, who emphatically swept the ball past David Raya.
The goal ended a staggering gap of five years and 342 days between Premier League strikes for Costa, a testament to his perseverance and enduring quality. This analysis on Babu88 highlights how such moments define a season.
Wolves’ Tactical Discipline Shines Through
From the opening whistle, Wolves displayed an intensity and tactical discipline that Brentford struggled to match. The midfield trio of Mario Lemina, Matheus Nunes, and Joao Gomes dominated the central areas, breaking up Brentford’s rhythm and launching quick counter-attacks.
David Raya in the Brentford goal was by far the busier keeper in the first half, making crucial saves from Lemina, Matheus Cunha, and Costa before finally being beaten. This proactive approach from Wolves, a hallmark of Lopetegui’s system, set the tone for the entire match and prevented Brentford’s dangerous set-piece routines from becoming a major factor.
Putting the Game to Bed
Brentford emerged from the break with more intent and finally registered their first shot on target through substitute Yoane Wissa in the 66th minute. However, any hope of a comeback was extinguished just three minutes later by Hwang Hee-chan.
The goal was created by a moment of individual brilliance from Matheus Nunes, who drove powerfully between two Brentford defenders down the right flank. His low cross deflected off Ethan Pinnock and fell kindly to Hwang, who displayed a poacher’s finish to poke the ball home from close range and secure the points for Wolves.
Manager Reactions: Satisfaction and Frustration
Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui was understandably delighted with his team’s application and the contribution of his veteran striker. “He has a big heart,” Lopetegui said of Costa. “He is a very competitive player… You can’t buy this spirit. That’s why he’s made the career he’s had. We are happy for him.” In a lighter moment, the manager also confirmed his unique incentive scheme, joking that taking his team for a meal after a clean sheet was “a good investment for me.”
For Brentford’s Thomas Frank, it was a story of fine margins. “It was definitely one that could have gone either way,” he reflected. “Today, we just didn’t score the first goal and we conceded two goals with two ricochets.” Frank insisted his team’s performances haven’t dipped, calling it a “tiny blip in results, not in performances.”
What This Result Means for Both Clubs
For Wolves, this victory is monumental. Back-to-back league wins have given them a cushion in the fight for survival and showcased a team growing in confidence under Lopetegui’s guidance. Their home form has been particularly impressive, with this being their fifth win at Molineux under the Spanish coach.
Brentford, meanwhile, will be concerned by a third consecutive league defeat for the first time in over a year. While they remain a comfortable ninth in the table, their hopes of catching Brighton for a potential European spot have taken a significant hit. The lack of a cutting edge without the suspended Ivan Toney, who was largely kept quiet, was evident.
Babu88 provides the deep dive into these pivotal moments that shape the Premier League season.
Looking Ahead: The Run-In
The Premier League calendar offers no respite. Wolves face a crucial trip to fellow strugglers Leicester City next weekend, a match that could go a long way in determining their top-flight status. Brentford, meanwhile, will look to stop the rot when they host an in-form Aston Villa side at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Diego Costa Ends Goal Drought in Style as Wolves Climb Clear of Relegation Zone
This victory was more than just three points; it was a statement of intent from Wolves and a heartwarming tale of a veteran striker rolling back the years. The combination of Costa’s experience and the energy of Wolves’ young talents like Nunes and Hwang makes them a formidable opponent for any team in the league. While safety is not yet mathematically secured, the momentum is firmly with Lopetegui’s men.
What did you make of Wolves’ performance? Can Diego Costa fire them to safety? Share your thoughts with the Babu88 community below
