Manchester, England – Kevin De Bruyne scored the lone goal to give Manchester City a critical 1-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Etihad Stadium on May 2, 2025. This victory secured City’s spot in the top three of the Premier League and extended their winning streak to five games across all competitions.
Wolves entered the game on a six-match winning streak and displayed early confidence, coming close to scoring on multiple occasions. In the 22nd minute, Jean-Ricner Bellegarde‘s pass to Marshall Munetsi was slightly overhit, denying them the opening goal. Shortly after, Rayan Ait-Nouri struck the post, further showcasing Wolves’ attacking threat.
However, the visitors failed to capitalize on their opportunities. It was De Bruyne, in what is expected to be his final home game for City, who made them pay shortly before halftime. After a defensive mistake, Jeremy Doku set up De Bruyne, who finished clinically to give City the lead.
Wolves continued to push for an equalizer in the second half. Matheus Cunha came agonizingly close with a shot that also hit the post, but City managed to hold on for the victory. With this win, City tightened their grip on a Champions League spot, leading to euphoric cheers from home supporters who chanted De Bruyne’s name at the final whistle.
“We found a way to win,” De Bruyne told Sky Sports after the match. “It’s been a tough year, but we’re finding our groove to secure the games we need to win. I know I have one game left here, and I just try to do my job as best as I can.”
Wolves’ coach, Vítor Pereira, praised his team’s performance despite the loss, emphasizing that, while they can lose a game, they must maintain their identity and commitment. “I saw everything in my team, except the result. We showed we have the quality to compete with them,” Pereira said.
In terms of team performance, City controlled most of the game but struggled in the first half, absorbing high pressure from Wolves. Guardiola acknowledged the grit his players showed, stating that the win was important as they continue to push for Champions League qualification.
The match saw minimal disciplinary action, with no yellow cards issued. Rayan Ait-Nouri narrowly avoided sending off after a challenge on Bernardo Silva, which was reviewed by VAR but deemed insufficient for a red card.
With only one game remaining at the Etihad, De Bruyne’s presence will surely be missed, as he has been integral in City’s recent successes, contributing significantly in both goals and assists throughout his tenure. Fans are hopeful he will end his tenure on a high note with an FA Cup win.
The final whistle marked an emotional moment for the Belgian, as he soaked in the adulation from the crowd. As City prepare for their last league matches against relegation-threatened teams, they aim to finish the season strong, while Wolves look to bounce back and build on their recent performances.
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