Van Hecke’s Late Header Extends Wolves’ Winless Run

Wolves 1-1 Brighton: Van Hecke Denies Pereira First Win as Wolves Stay Bottom

Jan Paul van Hecke headed home a dramatic late equaliser to deny Wolves their first Premier League win of the season and ensure Brighton left Molineux with a hard-fought point.

Wolves looked on course to secure a much-needed victory after a bizarre own goal from Bart Verbruggen, which came moments after manager Vitor Pereira was shown a red card for kicking a ball in frustration toward the broadcast area.

Pereira Sent Off in Chaotic First Half

The match erupted in the 38th minute when Pereira was dismissed by Jarred Gillett for an act of dissent after his side was denied a free-kick. Within 60 seconds, Wolves took the lead in unusual fashion — Munetsi’s shot struck the bar and rebounded off Verbruggen into the net.

The red card sparked energy in Wolves’ play, but Jhon Arias spurned a clear chance to make it 2-0 early in the second half. Brighton, meanwhile, grew into the game and looked increasingly dangerous.

Van Hecke Rescues Brighton Late On

Just when it seemed Wolves would grind out a rare win, Jan Paul van Hecke rose highest to power in a header with four minutes remaining, silencing the home crowd and dashing hopes of a first three points since April.

Brighton now remain unbeaten in their last 12 visits to Molineux, with the draw coming a week after their convincing win over Chelsea.

Wolves Analysis: A Point Not Enough for Pereira

Wolves have now drawn back-to-back matches but remain winless in seven to start the 2025/26 season. With just two points and an attacking setup that produced only nine touches in the opponent’s box, concerns are growing.

Pereira’s red card underscores the pressure building at Molineux. His three-year deal, signed last month, looks increasingly precarious. The upcoming matches — away at Sunderland and home to Burnley — may prove defining.

Wolves vs Brighton Stats:

• Final Third Passes: Wolves 35 | Brighton 104

• Touches in Opposition Box: Wolves 9 | Brighton 26

• Shots on Target: Wolves 3 | Brighton 6

Brighton Analysis: Mental Grit Secures a Point

Fabian Hürzeler’s side were not at their fluid best but showed mental resilience to claw back a result. Their usually sharp build-up play lacked edge, but Van Hecke’s late impact ensured they extended their unbeaten run at Wolves.

Brighton remain in mid-table but will need more consistent performances if they aim to match last season’s European push. Newcastle and Manchester United are up next — tests that will gauge their mettle.

What’s Next?

Upcoming Fixtures:

• Wolves:

  Sunderland (A) – Sat, 18 Oct

  Burnley (H) – Sun, 26 Oct

• Brighton:

  Newcastle (H) – Sat, 18 Oct

  Man United (A) – Sat, 25 Oct