Wolves vs Brentford Match Preview

Wolverhampton Wanderers head into the final day of the 2024/25 Premier League season intent on avoiding a difficult end to the season. A 4-2 midweek defeat to FA Cup winners Crystal Palace saw Wolves lose their fourth consecutive league campaign, a run that highlights the inconsistency that has plagued their season.

This defeat confirmed that Wolves cannot finish higher than 14th place, and depending on results elsewhere, they could even drop to 17th if they fail to secure a positive result on Sunday. For a club that has maintained stable mid-table positions since returning to the top flight in 2018/19, this potential drop represents a disappointing regression. Head coach Vítor Pereira will be keen to reverse this late-season decline and ensure his team ends the season with much-needed momentum.

A season of ups and downs

Before their current losing streak, Wolves had enjoyed a remarkable run, winning six straight Premier League games – their best run since returning to the top flight. This fine run saw them climb into the top half of the table and give fans cause for optimism, but the lack of consistency since then highlights the rebuilding work that remains at Molineux.

Despite recent struggles, Wolves have remained relatively strong at home. They have lost only one of their last five league games at Molineux (W3 D1), including victories against London rivals West Ham and Chelsea. With Brentford as their other opponents in the capital, Wolves will hope this trend continues, especially as they try to avoid ending the season with an eighth consecutive Premier League defeat.

Brentford’s European dream

Brentford arrive in the West Midlands with more than just pride at stake. The Bees can still secure eighth place, which could earn them a spot in next season’s UEFA Europa Conference League, depending on the outcome of the UEFA Conference League final and the European impact of the FA Cup. While the outlook remains uncertain, the motivation for a strong finish to the season remains.

Thomas Frank’s side had won four league games in a row before a narrow 3-2 defeat to Fulham last weekend, a result that temporarily halted their momentum. Still, Brentford have not lost two consecutive Premier League games since before Christmas, and they will be confident of bouncing back at Molineux, where they won 2-0 last season.

Their away performance has become one of the highlights of the second half of the season. After starting the 2024/25 season with five consecutive away defeats, Brentford have improved considerably, winning seven of their last nine Premier League away games (D1 L1). This impressive turnaround laid the foundations for their late rise up the table and underlines their ability to deliver results in hostile environments.

Tactical Perspectives

Wolves will look to take control of the midfield and use their wingers to exploit gaps in Brentford’s defense. They will likely look to start aggressively, given their good home form, especially against London teams. Brentford often owes their success to disciplined defense and quick transitions. If they can maintain their early momentum, they will have every chance of exploiting Wolves’ increasingly fragile defense, which has conceded ten goals in the last three games.

There will likely also be some extra motivation for individual players on both sides, particularly those whose futures might lie elsewhere.

Players to Watch

Matheus Cunha , who is expected to move to Manchester United this summer, could make his final appearance in a Wolves shirt.

The Brazilian striker has scored in two of Wolves’ last three home games – both of which ended in victories – and will be eager to finish on a high at Molineux.

Among the visitors, Yoane Wissa has gained momentum in recent weeks and could once again play a crucial role.

The Congolese international has scored between the 65th and 75th minutes in two of Brentford’s last three away games, demonstrating his knack for making a late impact.

Hot Stats

All three Premier League meetings between these two teams at Molineux have ended 2-0, with Brentford winning twice and Wolves once.

Prediction

Wolves’ recent form is worrying, and Brentford will arrive with increased motivation and the prospect of European qualification. If the visitors can contain the initial pressure and build their play as they have done on recent trips, they could well come away with all three points and keep their European hopes alive.

Prediction: Wolves 1-2 Brentford