Wolves Prepare for a Nail-Biting End to the Season as Vítor Pereira Fights for Premier League Survival
Wolverhampton Wanderers are bracing for a tense and nerve-wracking conclusion to their Premier League campaign under the guidance of Vítor Pereira. Following their recent 2-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, Wolves find themselves just two points above the relegation zone. However, despite the loss, their phenomenal second-half display has provided a glimmer of hope that they can still pull away from danger.
A Remarkable Second-Half Performance Against Liverpool
Wolves’ performance after halftime was nothing short of extraordinary. They completely shut down Liverpool’s attack, marking the first time in 21 years that the Reds failed to register a single shot on target in the second half at Anfield. Given Liverpool’s dominance at home in recent seasons, this statistic alone speaks volumes about the quality and intensity of Wolves’ second-half display.
Much of the credit for this turnaround must go to Pereira’s tactical adjustments. At halftime, the Portuguese manager made the bold decision to substitute Gonçalo Guedes and Pablo Sarabia, replacing them with Jean-Ricner Bellegarde and Marshall Munetsi. Initially, this move was questioned by football pundit Stephen Warnock, who was skeptical about removing two attacking players in favor of midfielders. However, Wolves’ aggressive pressing and wave-after-wave of attack in the second half forced Liverpool onto the back foot, proving Pereira’s decision to be a tactical masterstroke.
Marshall Munetsi: The Key to Wolves’ Survival?
One of the standout performers in Wolves’ impressive second-half resurgence was Marshall Munetsi. The 28-year-old Zimbabwean midfielder, who was signed from Reims in February, played a pivotal role in Wolves’ attacking pressure. Though typically known as a box-to-box midfielder, Munetsi has been deployed in a more advanced role in recent games, especially in the absence of striker Jørgen Strand Larsen.
Against Liverpool, Munetsi operated almost as an unorthodox number nine, constantly making dangerous runs beyond the defense. In one notable moment, he found himself through on goal after a clever movement between Liverpool’s center-backs, only to be denied by Alisson. While he didn’t get on the scoresheet, his movement and ability to stretch the defense provided a new dimension to Wolves’ attack.
Wolves have struggled for goals from midfield since the departure of Rúben Neves to Al Hilal in 2023. Munetsi’s attacking instincts and ability to drive forward could be exactly what they need to pick up crucial points in the relegation battle. If he continues to develop in this role, he could play an instrumental part in Wolves’ fight for survival.
Munetsi Speaks on His Tactical Role
After the Liverpool match, Munetsi shared insights into Wolves’ tactical shift, explaining why Pereira opted for a four-midfielder formation in the second half.
“The coach wanted us to put them under more pressure, and that’s why we had four midfielders on in the second half. It was part of the tactic to try to put them under pressure, and once we get the ball, to try and play it forward fast.”
This strategy allowed Wolves to dominate possession in key areas of the pitch, forcing Liverpool into defensive mistakes and reducing their attacking effectiveness.
Munetsi also spoke about his versatility, explaining that he is comfortable playing in different midfield roles due to his experience in France with Reims.
“I like the duels and to help the team defensively and in attack. I try my best to contribute with goals as a box-to-box midfielder. As a player, you have to be able to adjust to any position that you play. In France, I played some games like this, so it’s not unusual for me. I’m capable of getting into the box and finishing. As a midfielder, I need to be able to play in any position.”
With his adaptability and newfound attacking role, Munetsi could emerge as a crucial figure in Wolves’ survival hopes.
Upcoming Fixtures: Wolves Face Must-Win Matches
Wolves’ next few games will be critical in determining whether they stay in the Premier League. They are set to face AFC Bournemouth this weekend, and given Munetsi’s impressive display against Liverpool, he could be in line for his first start.
Here are Wolves’ upcoming fixtures:
Saturday, February 22, 2025 – Bournemouth vs. Wolves (3:00 PM WAT)
Tuesday, February 25, 2025 – Wolves vs. Fulham (7:30 PM WAT)
Saturday, March 8, 2025 – Wolves vs. Everton (12:00 PM PST)
Saturday, March 15, 2025 – Southampton vs. Wolves (8:00 AM PDT)
Tuesday, April 1, 2025 – Wolves vs. West Ham (11:45 AM PDT)
These fixtures present a massive opportunity for Wolves to pick up points against teams in the bottom half of the table. The upcoming match against Bournemouth, in particular, is a huge six-pointer that could provide Wolves with some much-needed breathing room.
Pereira’s Tactical Flexibility Could Be the Difference
Vítor Pereira has already proven his ability to make bold tactical decisions, as evidenced by the second-half resurgence against Liverpool. His willingness to experiment with new roles for players like Munetsi suggests that he is ready to adapt his approach to maximize Wolves’ chances of survival.
Wolves fans will be hoping for more performances like the one at Anfield, as they prepare for a nerve-shredding end to the season. If Pereira can continue to get the best out of Munetsi and his squad, Wolves might just have what it takes to stay in the Premier League.