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West Ham United secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the London Stadium, earning Julen Lopetegui a vital lifeline amidst mounting pressure.
The fixture was billed as a showdown between two under-pressure managers, with former Wolves boss Lopetegui facing his successor, Gary O’Neil. The match began with a poignant moment as fans gave a standing ovation in the ninth minute for Michail Antonio, who was recovering from a car accident.
The first half was a tense affair, with both sides creating opportunities. Wolves’ João Gomes tested Łukasz Fabiański early on, while Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus came close for the hosts. Despite nine first-half corners for West Ham, they failed to capitalize, leaving Lopetegui frustrated heading into halftime.
However, the breakthrough came shortly after the restart. Bowen delivered a precise corner that Tomáš Souček headed into the far corner, giving the hosts a deserved lead.
Moments later, Mohammed Kudus thought he had doubled the advantage, but his effort was ruled offside. Wolves responded with Rayan Aït-Nouri setting up Matt Doherty, whose guided finish leveled the game.
The parity was short-lived as Bowen struck decisively in the 66th minute. The winger curled a brilliant shot past Sam Johnstone, marking his sixth Premier League goal against Wolves, a personal best. His emotional celebration, holding up an Antonio shirt, highlighted the unity within the squad.
Wolves pushed for an equalizer, with Mario Lemina’s late effort saved by Fabiański and penalty appeals dismissed, but they fell short. The defeat leaves Wolves joint-worst in the league for goals conceded in 2024, tied with West Ham at 72.
The win marked the Hammers’ third successive triumph over Wolves, a feat last achieved two decades ago. Meanwhile, Wolves’ relegation worries deepened as they remain four points adrift of safety.
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