Dominant First-Half Display Secures Crucial Three Points for Gary O’Neil’s Side.

Tolu Arokodare

Wolverhampton Wanderers finally broke their duck in the 2025/26 Premier League season, securing their first victory with an emphatic 3-0 triumph over West Ham United at Molineux on Saturday, January 4, 2026.

Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare played a key role in the win, making his 15th appearance for the club since his summer arrival. The Nigerian international, who has scored one goal this season, delivered an impressive performance up front before being substituted in the 88th minute for David Møller Wolfe amid applause from the home crowd.

Wolves wasted no time asserting dominance, with Jhon Arias opening the scoring just four minutes in. The Colombian winger finished from close range after a slick team move involving Mateus Mane and Hwang Hee-chan.

The hosts doubled their lead midway through the first half when Hwang Hee-chan confidently dispatched a penalty after Mane was fouled in the box. The South Korean forward kept his cool to slot past the West Ham goalkeeper.

Before halftime, 18-year-old sensation Mateus Mane capped a superb team performance with his maiden senior goal, rifling home to make it 3-0 and effectively seal the points in a one-sided opening 45 minutes.

The second half saw Wolves manage the game professionally, with Arokodare’s physical presence continuing to trouble the Hammers’ defense until his late withdrawal.

This vital win lifts Gary O’Neil’s side off the bottom of the table and provides much-needed momentum heading into a busy January schedule.