The last Premier League match of the decade at the Molineux Stadium saw Wolverhampton Wanderers take on Manchester City, their first of two matches within 48 hours. The hosts stunned Manchester City earlier this season at the Etihad Stadium, scoring two late goals, and obtaining the three points. They made it a bit more difficult for themselves this time, going two goals down, despite having an extra man on the pitch. However, Wolves were able to turn it around, and the dramatic end to the match saw them win 3-2.
This tactical analysis will how Manchester City were able to cope despite going down a man early, how Wolves were struggling to initially break down Manchester City, and how the tables turned late on in the second half.
Lineups
Pep Guardiola opted for a formation change for his trip to the Molineux, opting for a 4-2-3-1 rather than his usual 4-3-3. The back four consisted of Kyle Walker, Nicolás Otamendi, Fernandinho, and Benjamin Mendy, who were situated in front of Ederson in goal. Rodri and Bernardo Silva were in central midfield, with Kevin De Bruyne slightly ahead of them. Citys front three consisted of Riyad Mahrez, Sergio Agüero, and Raheem Sterling.
How Wolves forced Manchester City down to 10
Twelve minutes in, Ederson was sent off for denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity. What is important to note, though, is how Wolves were able to get Ederson in such a vulnerable position that he had to resort to the foul, and the fact that this was a tactic that Wolves were looking to use throughout the match.
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