FA Cup: Cunha Screamer Takes Wolves to Extra Time at Bournemouth
In a thrilling and dramatic FA Cup fifth-round clash between AFC Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Vitality Stadium, it was a stunning long-range strike from Matheus Cunha that sent the match into extra time, making sure Wolves were not going down without a fight. The 3-3 draw after 90 minutes would be a testament to the high drama and intensity that made this encounter one of the standout games of the tournament. Bournemouth’s early dominance was almost undone by Cunha’s rocket, forcing a pulsating extra time that left fans on the edge of their seats.
As the clock ticked down, it seemed Bournemouth would be able to secure their place in the quarter-finals, having taken the lead twice in the match. However, Cunha’s equalizer was a brilliant individual moment that reminded everyone why the FA Cup is often described as one of the most exciting tournaments in football.
First Half: Bournemouth Take Control
From the opening whistle, it was clear that Bournemouth were going to impose their game on Wolves. The Cherries, managed by Gary O’Neil, came out with aggressive pressing and quick, incisive football, hoping to secure an early lead. Wolves, on the other hand, seemed content to absorb the pressure and look for opportunities on the counter-attack, a strategy that allowed Bournemouth to dominate possession early in the match.
The first goal arrived in the 20th minute after a beautifully crafted team move. Philip Billing, known for his aerial prowess and eye for goal, rose above the Wolves defense to meet a pinpoint cross from Jaidon Anthony. His header was perfectly placed, beyond the reach of Wolves goalkeeper José Sá, and into the corner of the net. It was a deserved opener for Bournemouth, who had controlled the game up until that point, and the crowd erupted as they celebrated their team’s dominance.
Wolves had to regroup quickly, as it seemed they were on the back foot. The visitors attempted to respond, with the lively Pedro Neto attempting to spark an attack, but Bournemouth’s defense, marshaled by the ever-reliable Marcos Senesi, was resolute. However, just when it appeared that Bournemouth might have the upper hand, Wolves managed to carve out an equalizer.
Wolves Hit Back: Neto’s Cross and Podence’s Finish
Wolves’ equalizer came against the run of play, and it was the result of a smart piece of team play. In the 35th minute, Neto showed his ability on the ball, cutting inside from the right wing. He floated a dangerous ball into the box, which was met by the feet of Daniel Podence, who had timed his run perfectly. Podence was able to get a touch, diverting the ball past Bournemouth keeper Neto and into the net. The equalizer was well-executed, and it gave Wolves a much-needed boost as they looked to find their rhythm in the match.
Bournemouth was clearly unsettled by the goal, as they had dominated for much of the first half. The Cherries tried to respond quickly, but Wolves’ defense, led by the ever-steadfast Max Kilman and the experienced Craig Dawson, managed to keep them at bay. Despite the setback, Bournemouth were still dangerous going forward, and they managed to regain their lead just before halftime.
Bournemouth’s Second Goal: A Fine Finish from Solanke
Just two minutes before the break, Bournemouth regained their advantage. This time, it was Dominic Solanke who found the back of the net. Solanke has been in great form this season, and his goal was the product of a determined run and calm finish. The striker collected a through ball from Billing and kept his composure, finishing low past José Sá. It was a fine strike from Solanke, and Bournemouth had their noses in front once more, leading 2-1 at halftime.
The second half started with both teams looking to gain control, but the nature of the match was fast-paced, with both sides attacking at every opportunity. Wolves needed an early goal to get back into the contest, and that goal would come in dramatic fashion, courtesy of one of the most incredible strikes seen in the competition this season.
Matheus Cunha’s Stunning Equalizer
The 70th minute brought a moment of brilliance that will be remembered for years to come. Wolves were awarded a free kick about 35 yards from goal, in a central position. While many might have expected the ball to be delivered into the box, Cunha had other ideas. The Brazilian forward, with a calm and composed demeanor, decided to take a long-range shot at goal.
The ball soared through the air, and as it approached the goal, it seemed to pick up pace. Bournemouth’s Neto had no chance. The strike was pure class, curling away from the goalkeeper and into the top corner. It was a thunderous shot that took everyone by surprise, including the crowd, who fell silent in disbelief. Cunha’s goal was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the FA Cup and was the catalyst that sent the match into extra time. The away supporters erupted in joy, knowing that they had been handed a lifeline and that there was more to come.
With the scores level at 2-2, the match continued at a frenetic pace, with both sides pushing for the winner. The pressure mounted as the players, visibly fatigued, fought through the pain to get that all-important third goal. It was clear that extra time was now inevitable, but neither team was willing to settle for a draw. The contest was far from over.
Extra Time: A Battle of Wills
As the game went into extra time, it was clear that both teams were physically drained, but there was still that determination to advance to the next round of the FA Cup. Bournemouth came out strong, hoping to assert their dominance once again, while Wolves tried to maintain the momentum from Cunha’s thunderous strike.
Both teams had chances to win it. For Bournemouth, Solanke, who had been in the thick of the action throughout the match, fired a powerful shot just wide in the 96th minute, with Sá beaten. Wolves, meanwhile, almost snatched the lead in the 102nd minute, when Cunha’s low shot was brilliantly saved by Neto. The match had reached fever pitch, and it seemed only a matter of time before the decisive goal arrived.
Wolves’ Dramatic Winner: A Moment of Class
Just as the game seemed to be heading toward penalties, Wolves found their winner. In the 114th minute, Adama Traoré, ever the danger on the wing, whipped in a dangerous cross into the box. The ball found its way to the head of Rúben Neves, who was able to rise above the Bournemouth defenders and plant a header past Neto. It was a moment of calmness and composure under pressure, and Neves’ header sent the Wolves fans into raptures.
Bournemouth pushed forward in the final minutes, but Wolves’ defense held firm, and despite a last-gasp effort from the Cherries, the game ended 3-2 in favor of the visitors. Wolves had battled through adversity and withstood a valiant effort from Bournemouth to advance to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
Post-Match Reactions: A Match for the Ages
Wolves’ manager, Julen Lopetegui, was understandably pleased with the result, though he was quick to acknowledge the difficulty of the match. “It was a very tough game,” he said in his post-match interview. “Bournemouth played really well, and we had to show character to come back. The equalizer from Cunha was special, and it gave us the belief to keep fighting. We have a lot of respect for Bournemouth, but we are happy to be in the next round.”
Bournemouth’s Gary O’Neil, despite the loss, was proud of his team’s performance, stating, “We gave it everything today, and I am proud of how we fought back every time. We could have won it, but we came up against a very strong team. We’ll learn from this, and we’ll keep pushing.”
Conclusion: A Night of High Drama
This FA Cup encounter between Bournemouth and Wolves was an unforgettable spectacle, full of twists and turns. From the early dominance of Bournemouth to Cunha’s stunning strike, and ultimately Neves’ decisive header, the match had everything a fan could ask for. For Wolves, the road to the quarter-finals was tough, but the victory was sweet, and the dramatic nature of the tie will surely be remembered for years to come. Bournemouth, though disappointed, can hold their heads high, knowing they pushed a Premier League team all the way. This was football at its finest—thrilling, unpredictable, and full of emotion.
